Evaluation of common allergens in children with atopic dermatitis by skin prick test

Atopic dermatitis is the most common chronic dermatologic disorder in childhood affecting 10-30% of children. Allergen avoidance in combination to skin hydration and topical steroids are considered as major parts of treatment. As these allergen may be different in various cultures, recognition of them has importance In management of disease. The aim of this study was to recognize common allergens in children with atopic dermatitis in Mashhad by skin prick test. Method and materials: Skin prick test with common food allergens and aeroallergens in addition to positive control(histamine) and negative control (saline) was performed on 207 children with atopic dermatitis. 207 children with atopic dermatitis (116 boy and 91 girls) aged 3 months to 14 years participated in this study. The most common allergensrespectively included egg white, egg yolk, cow''s milk, weeds(Russian thistle), pepper, mites(D. Farinqe and D. ptteronysinus), curry and walnut.Food allergens were more prevalent in the young age and aeroallergens were more prevalent in the older age. Prevalence of allergens in each region is different depending on environmental conditions, food habits, ethical diversities and life style. Recognition and avoidance of allergens in combination to medical therapy has an important role in management of atopic dermatitis.