Is the European standard series suitable for patch testing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia?

Due to the lack of a regional patch test series in our geographical area, the suitability of the European standard series was evaluated by patch testing dermatitis patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Of 240 consecutive patients with various forms of dermatitis, 136 (57%) showed 1 or more positive patch tests, women, 74 (54%), slightly outnumbering men, 62 (46%). Positive reactions were found to 21 of the 22 items in the test series. Sensitization was most common to nickel sulfate (51 = 37.5%), potassium dichromate (48 = 35%) and cobalt chloride (43 = 32%) The frequency of sensitization to nickel was higher in women (41 = 30%) while that to dichromate was higher in men (39 = 29%). Less reactions were found to fragrance mix (21 = 15%), formaldehyde (15 = 11%) and neomycin sulfate (15 = 11%). Sensitization to other allergens ranged between 10 and 1%. Less than 1% of patients (0.7%) reacted to benzocaine and none to primin. The frequency of occurrence of multiple sensitivities is also presented. We conclude that the European standard series is suitable for patch testing dermatitis patients in our region, with the exception of benzocaine and primin. The addition of 3 allergens that could be of local relevance is discussed.