The Role of Patch Testing in Perineal Disorders Affecting Women

Background: Many different materials are used in the perineal area, making it liable to contact sensitisation. Objective: We report the results of a retrospective study of patients with perineal dermatoses involving the vulva investigated for possible contact allergy. Methods: 240 female patients with dermatoses in the perineal area, specifically including the vulva, were patch tested to our standard series and a special patch test series devised for perineal problems. Results: 79 out of 240 patients (32.9%) demonstrated relevant positive results. These related to medicaments (49 patients), perfumes (22 patients), cosmetics (5 patients), dyes (4 patients) and rubber (4 patients). Conclusions: Perineal dermatoses involving the vulva may require patch testing to identify suspected and unanticipated contact allergy. An extended comprehensive series of patch test allergens will be necessary in these cases.