Allergy to para-tertiary-butylphenol formaldehyde resin in general population: A retrospective analysis of 37 cases

Background: para-tertiary-butylphenol formaldehyde resin (PTBP-FR) is a commonly 1 used adhesive encountered in various occupational and non-occupational settings. The world over incidence of PTBP-FR sensitivity is around 1%. We evaluated the different clinical patterns and patch test reactivity in patients with PTBP-FR allergy presenting to the Patch Test Clinic of our department. Patients and methods: 37 cases (33 females and 4 males, mean age 30.8±12.6 years) showing positive result on patch testing done in accordance with the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group guidelines, were evaluable. Detailed history and clinical examination with special reference to aggravating factors, atopy, clinical patterns and patch test reactivity were elicited. Results: Of 350 patch tested patients, positivity to PTBP-FR was seen in 10.6% of cases. Females were significantly more affected than males. Primary PTBP-FR dermatitis was much more common as compared to secondary type and foot eczema was the usual presentation. Patch test results were relevant in 81% of cases. Polysensitivity was more common than monosensitivity and nickel sulphate, fragrance mix and neomycin sulphate were the usual co-allergens. Conclusion: PTBP-FR allergy is much common in our general population, particularly in females with shoe dermatitis. PTBP-FR allergy is usually associated with other allergies.