bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addition of ferrous sulfate to cement and risk of chromium dermatitis among construction workers
Authors: Roto Pekka , Sainio Hannele , Reunala Timo , Laippala Pekka
Published: April 2006

Lowering the water‐soluble chromium content of cement to < 2 ppm has been suggested to diminish tile risk of allergic hand dermatitis caused by chromium among construction workers. The prevalence of chromium dermatitis was determined for a representative sample of 913 house construction workers and 707 concrete element prefabrications workers, with a questionnaire and clinical examination, before the use of cement with such H low content of water‐soluble chromium was Lined on Finnish construction sites in 1987. The prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis caused by water‐soluble chromium, diagnoses confirmed with patch tests among the workers with hand dermatitis, was 9/ 117 (7.7%). 4 of them were new 4/105 (4%) and 5 had been diagnosed earlier. In 1997, the prevalence of work‐related hand dermatitis (allergic and irritant together) was 6.8% among the construction workers and 8.9% among the concrete element prefabrication workers. The Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases was checked for reports of chromium dermatitis and other forms of hand dermatitis from 1978 to 1992. The results indicated that, after 1987, the occurrence of allergic contact dermatitis caused by chromium decreased to less than 1/3 the previous level, whereas the occurrence of irritant contact dermatitis remained stable throughout the observation period. Regardless of some potential confounders, the addition of ferrous sulfate to cement during the production process may have reduced the number of cases of allergic contact dermatitis among construction and concrete element prefabrication workers. Our results agree with the results of Danish studies and Swedish observations.
Change in cement manufacturing process, a cause for decline in chromate allergy?
Authors: Goh C. L. , Gan S. L.
Published: April 2006

Hexavalent chromate in cement is the commonest cause of allergic contact dermatitis, especially among construction workers. Over the past decades, there has been a general decline in the prevalence of chromate allergy among construction workers. We suspect that a change in the constituents of cement, resulting in the lowering of the hexavalent chromate, contributed to the decline. Slag (free from hexavalent chromate) from the iron‐quenched, blast furnace process has been used as a substitute for clinker (which contains high hexavalent chromate) in manufacturing cement As a result, the slag has diluted the hexavalent chromate content of cement. Our analytical study showed that slag is free from hexavalent chromate and that the hexavalent chromate of clinker ranged from 6–17 μg/g. Substituting slag for clinker resulted in dilution of hexavalent chromate in the cement. The hexavalent chromate content of cement declines proportionately with increasing proportion of slag, e.g., a cement containing 5% slag has a total hexavalent chromate concentration of 17.5 μg/g. whereas increasing the proportion of slag to 60%; reduced the hexavalent chromate content to 7.1 μg/g. in the same cement.
Dichloronitrobenzene: a reappraisal of its skin sensitization potential
Authors: Basketter David A. , Sholes Edward W. , Fielding Ian , Dearman Rebecca J , Hilton Jennifer , Kimber Ian
Published: April 2006

Unlike the closely related chemical dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB), which is a very strong contact allergen, dichloronitrobenzene (DCNB) has been widely regarded as a non‐allergen and, as such, a useful control for its strongly sensitizing counterpart. Nevertheless, it is still an organic chemical species readily capable of penetrating skin and, rather than being regarded as completely inert, it has even been suggested to react with the immune system in such a way that it induces specific tolerance to its chemical structure. We investigated whether DCNB was in reality a non‐allergen, or rather merely a weak contact sensitizer. In both a rigorously conducted guinea pig maximization test and in a modified murine local lymph node assay. DCNB was demonstrated lo possess weak sensitizing activity. On this basis, DCNB cannot be regarded as inert with respect to contact allergic potential, and is therefore inappropriate as a negative control in studies of skin sensitization
Sensitive skin and stratunm corneum reactivity to household cleaning products
Authors: Goffin V. , Piérard‐Franchimont C. , Piérard G. E.
Published: April 2006

Products intended for individuals with sensitive skin are being increasingly developed by formulators of household cleaning products. However, there is currently no consensus about the definition and recognition of the biological basis of sensitive skin. We sought to determine the relation between the nature of environmental threat perceived as aggressive by panelists, and the stratum corneum reactivity lo household cleaning products as measured by the corneosurfametry lest. Results indicate substantial differences in irritancy potential between proprietary products. Corneosurfametry data show significant differences in stratum corneum reactivity between, on file one hand, individuals with cither non‐sensitive skin or skin sensitize to climate‐fabrics, and, on the other hand, individuals with detergent‐sensitive skin. It is concluded that sensitive skin is not one single condition. Sound information in rating detergent sensitive skin may be gained by corneosurfametry.
Nonspecific hypersensitivity: false‐positive responses with the use of Freund's complete adjuvant
Authors: Buehler E. V.
Published: April 2006

While conducting a guinea pig sensitization protocol, using the maximization test, it was discovered, at challenge, that the test animals were more responsive to the vehicle (acetone) than they were to the proprietary lest material. During rechallenge, conducted to clarify the specific immune status of the test animals, it was determined that they were also hyperreactive to an alternate vehicle (diethyl phthalate), to which they were naïve. This bizarre set of data is presented and it is suggested that this type of response is the prototype for the presence of false‐positive responses experienced by loxicologists using this test. The test conditions imposed on the immune system by the maximization test that could result in these anomalous results are discussed. These data suggest that investigators need cautiously to interpret data that are produced by the injection of Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA).
Sensitization studies with mometasone furoate, tixocortol pivalate, and budesonide in the guinea pig
Authors: Bruze Magnus , Björkner Bert , Dooms‐Goossens An
Published: April 2006

Mometasone furoate is a new corticosteroid, synthesized to have an improved ratio of anti‐inflammatory potential to adverse effects. The guinea pig maximization test was used to determine the sensitizing capacity of mometasone furoate, and also to investigate cross‐reaction patterns in animals sensitized to tixocortol pivalate and budesonide, respectively. Tixocortol pivalate was shown to be a sensitizer in the guinea pig, but cross‐reactions to other tested corticosteroids wore not observed. Furthermore, no sensitizing capacity could be demonstrated for budesonide or mometasone furoate.
Skin symptoms and contact allergy in woodwork teachers
Authors: Meding Birgitta , åHman Mats , Karlberg Ann‐Therese
Published: April 2006

To estimate the occurrence of skin symptoms and the prevalence of contact allergy occupational allergens, 84 mule woodwork teachers were interviewed, clinically examined and patch tested, The tests included a supplemented European standard series and acetone extracts of wood dust of pine spruce, juniper and birch. In addition. 10 colophony‐allergic Volunteer were tested with dilution series of wood dust extracts. Major colophony compounds in the dust extracts were analyzed with gas chromatography. We round a high 1‐year period prevalence of generally mild hand eczema: 19%. Contact allergy was diagnosed to several allergens in the working environment, e.g., benzisothiazolin‐3‐one. Nickel, formaldehyde and colophony. A clear relationship between patch test reactions to colophony and to coniferous woods, especially pine, was found. Exposure to wood dust at work caused dermatitis in a colophony‐sensitized teacher
Evaluation of a human patch test for the identification and classification of skin irritation potential
Authors: York M. , Griffiths H. A. , Whittle E. , Basketter D. A.
Published: April 2006

Current regulations require that the skin irritation/corrosion potential of new chemicals is assessed in the rabbit Draize test, although there are opportunities to use alternative methods to identify the most aggressive materials. Previously, we have proposed that it is possible la employ a strategy that avoids the use of animals and at the same time delivers a more relevant assessment of skin irritation‐corrosion potential. The approach is to identify corrosive materials in vitro and then proceed to human volunteer testing for skin irritation. In this study, the human 4‐h patch test, its interpretation, and results with 29 test materials are presented. Using 14 materials not classified as “Irritating to skin” by EU criteria. 13 classified as “Irritating to skin” by suppliers, and 2 as “Corrosive – causes burns”, it is demonstrated that, by evaluating these on human skin in vitro and in vivo, a significant proportion are either over‐classified or under‐classified. In conclusion, we are convinced that by application of the approach described in detail here, it is possible to avoid the use of animals, whilst at the name time obtaining an assessment of skin irritation/corrosion potential that is more relevant to man and which, if required, may he used directly for classification and labelling of substances and preparations within the European Union.
Corticosteroid contact hypersensitivity: what vehicle and concentration?
Authors: Wilkinson S. M. , Beck M. H.
Published: April 2006

The correct concentration and vehicle for patch Letting with corticosteroids is in many instances not known. Tine results of this study Suggest that 1% in ethanol should be the initial choice, unless it can he shown that petrolatum as a vehicle is as sensitive (tixocortol pivalate and budesonide). We could find no evidence for the anti‐inflammatory effects of corticosteroids inhibiting the patch test al higher concentrations. Using ethanol as the vehicle resulted in reactions developing at earlier time points than with petrolatum.
Sensitizing and irritant properties of 3 environmental classes of diesel oil and their indicator dyes
Authors: Fischer Torkel , Bjarnason Bolli
Published: April 2006

3 dyes, Solvent Yellow 124 and Solvent Blue 79 or Solvent Blue 98, were added to diesel oils in Sweden for identification of their particular use and taxation bracket in late 1993. Health concern regarding the toxicity of the dyes resulted in several reports to the Worker Inspection Bureau. 36 men reporting skin disease supposedly caused by dyes were diagnosed to have irritant reactions, irritant contact dermatitis or exacerbation of other skin disease. Tests on 15 individuals from this group, and 20 healthy volunteers, failed to demonstrate contact allergy or contact urticaria to the dyes or dyed diesel oil. Patch tests with dyes (10% v/v) in pet, did not cause irritation. Tests of irritant properties of the diesel oils showed that the old type of oil, with high viscosity, high content of aromatic compounds and moderately high sulfur content, caused little irritation, whereas newer, lighter qualities of diesel oil, with low concentrations of aromatic compounds and low sulfur content, which cause less pollution to the environment when burnt, were significantly more irritant to the skin and probably a cause of the skin problems.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis and airborne contact dermatitis from 5 fungicides in a vineyard worker. Cross‐reactions between fungicides of the dithiocarbamate group?*
Authors: Koch Patrick
Published: April 2006

We report a patient with occupational contact dermatitis due to sensitization to mancozeb and perhaps metiram used in a vineyard. Patch testing showed strong allergic patch test reactions to 2 of the commercially available preparations used (Dithane Ultra® and Polyram WG®). Further patch tests showed allergic patch test reactions to mancozeb (0.5 and 1% pet.) as weak reaction to metiram (1% pet.) as well as to 4 other fungicides of the dithiocarbamate group (maneb, nabam, propineb and zineb), which had never een used in the vineyard.
pDelayed‐type hypersensitivity to subcutaneous lidocaine with tolerance to articaine: confirmation by in vivo and in vitro tests
Authors: Bircher Andreas J. , Messmer Sabine Langauer , Surber Christian , Rufli Th.
Published: April 2006

A 43‐year‐old woman suffered from recurrent localized swellings and an eczematous dermatitis starting 1 day after an injection of lidocaine. Intradermal patch and lymphocyte transformation tests revealed sensitization to lidocaine and cross‐reactivity to the other aminoacylamide local anesthetics bupivacaine. mepivacaine and prilocaine, but not to articaine. Contact allergy to the ester local anesthetics benzocaine, procaine and tetracaine, the quinoline or aminoalkylamide cinchocaine, and the preservatives methylparaben and metabisulfite, was excluded. A subcutaneous challenge with articaine was well tolerated.
Day 4 is better than day 3 for a single patch test reading
Authors: Todd D. J. , Hasdlev J. , Metwali M. , Allen G.E. , Burrows D.
Published: April 2006

Readings were performed on day (D)2, D3 and D4 after application of patch tests in NN patients. 90 patch lest reactions in 49 patients were interpreted as allergic und of past or present relevance. A single D2 reading detected 58 of the allergic reactions, with 32 false‐negatives and 23 false‐positives. A single D3 reading detected 77 allergic reactions, with 13 false‐negatives and 17 False‐positives. A single D4 reading detected 85 allergic reactions, with 5 false‐negatives und 4 false‐positives. Therefore, if only a single reading is feasible, it is better performed on D4 than on D3.
Elicitation thresholds for thiuram mix using petrolatum and ethanol/sweat as vehicles
Authors: Knudsen B. B. , Mennë T.
Published: April 2006

An estimate of amounts of thiurams that may be released from rubber gloves into synthetic sweat, has previously been generated. These amounts should be compared to elicitation thresholds Of patch tests performed with serial dilutions of thiuram mix using synthetic sweat as vehicle. Because of solubility properties of thiurams in aqueous media, such dilutions cannot directly be prepared. In this study, a stem solution was prepared in ethanol. This solution was then further diluted with synthetic sweat. Thiuram mix 0.5 w/v% was the most concentrated solution in ethanol achievable. The parch test reactions were compared to reactions to serial dilutions using petrolatum as vehicle. The experiment revealed that endpoint dilution with synthetic sweat was not achieved in this study. The threshold for elicitation of positive patch test reactions seemed to be lower for ethanol/sweat a, vehicle compared to petrolatum: 32% reacted to ethanol/synthetic sweat 0.001 mg/cm2 compared to 14% reading to thiuram in pet. 0.0Q2 mg/cm2. Based on these results, synthetic sweat may be considered a more relevant medium for threshold finding studies than petrolatum. Because of expected instability of the aqueous solutions, petrolatum is probably a more suitable vehicle for routine testing. The study does not permit final conclusions concerning acceptable thresholds for reachable thiurams in rubber gloves, but it is likely that an acceptable threshold would be substantially less than 0001 mg/cm2.
Occupational sensitization to epoxy resin and reactive diluents in marble workers
Authors: Angelini Gianni , Rigano Luigi , Foti Caterina , Grandolfo Mauro , Vena Gino A. , Bonamonte Domenico , Soleo Leonardo , Scorpinitt Annunziato A.
Published: April 2006

10 out of 22 marble workers handling a bicomponent resin, based on epoxy resin and ortho‐cresyl glycidyl ether (CGE), developed Contact dermatitis and airborne contact dermatitis within 20 days to 2 months of exposure. All 22 subjects were patch tested with epoxy resin, bisphenol A, epichlorohydrin and a series of reactive diluents. The 10 symptomatic subjects were all positive to the reactive diluent CGE, and 4 of them also to epoxy resin. The other reactive diluents that gave positive reactions were phenyl glycidyl ether (7 cases), cyclohexanedimethanol glycidyl ether (2 cases), 1,6‐hexanediol diglycidyl ether (2 cases) and allyl glycidyl ether (1 case). The findings of our Study suggest that allergic potential is directly proportional to the electronic charge available, for all electron‐rich molecules (solvents, high and low polymers, reagents) that interact with the glycidyl ether group. Lesser, but still noticeable, effects are detected when activation of the glycidyl group is related to the possible formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds. In practice, the occupational problem was partly solved by changing the type of glycidyl ether.
Patch testing of 490 patients in Hong Kong
Authors: Lee T. Y. , Lam T. H.
Published: April 2006

Patch testing, using European standard allergens and suspected causative substances brought in by patients, was carried out in 490 patients with eczema in Hong Kong and 437 completed the test. Before patch testing, 244, 141 and 105 patients were diagnosed as having contact dermatitis, endogenous eczema and unclassified eczema, respectively. After patch testing, the diagnosis of the causal agent was changed in 54 contact dermatitis patients, and 18% of endogenous eczema patients and 34% of unclassified eczema patients were re‐diagnosed as contact dermatitis, In the patients with a final diagnosis of contact dermatitis, 19.5% were positive to fragrance mix, followed by nickel sulfate (16;4%) and cobalt chloride (11,3%). The commonest causative agents for contact dermatitis were soap or detergent (22.0%) and traditional Chinese medicine (17.3%): the latter was a more common cause of contact dermatitis than Western medicine (9.0%) or metals (13.4%). The prevalence of allergic reaction to fragrance in Hong Kong was higher than among Chinese in Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei or Singapore (78% ethnic Chinese). Dermatologists should have a high index of suspicion about traditional medications and should patch test with the suspected substance when patients give a history of use.
Sensitization of mice to topically applied drugs: albuterol chlorpheniramine, clonidine and nadolol
Authors: Kalish Richard , Wood Jonathan A. , Wille John J. , Kydonieus Agis
Published: April 2006

Allergic contact dermatitis from drugs is a significant obstacle to the development of transdermal drug delivers systems. Protocols for the sensitization of mice to drugs are needed to test methods for the prevention of allergic contact dermatitis. CBA/J female mice were sensitized to the drugs albuterol, chlorpheniramine, clonidine and nadolol by topical application. Sensitization was achieved by application of drug at 5% (w/v) 10 shaven dorsal skin for 5 days in a hydroxyethylcellulose vehicle. Contact serialization was determined by measuring the car swelling response to application of l%. drug in vehicle. Control mice treated by application of vehicle alone did not exhibit an ear swelling response to drug. Supplementation of the mice with vitamin A boosted the ear swelling response, as did application of drug to dorsal versus abdominal skin. Although plasma amounts of retinol were higher in vitamin A supplemented versus control mice, the rate of drug (albuterol and nadolol) permeation was not significantly different between vitamin A supplemented and control mice. Permeability of dorsal skin for nadolol was twice that of ventral skin, which may explain the differences in sensitization at these sites. This sensitization protocol should be useful in the development of hypoallergenic transdermal drug delivery systems.
The value and limitations of rechallenge in the guinea pig maximization test
Authors: Frankild S. , Basketter D. A. , And–ersen K. E.
Published: April 2006

The guinea pig maximization test (GPMT) has played a primary rôle in the evaluation the evaluation of potential skin contact sensitizers for 25 years. In the OECD Guideline 406 from 1993, it is specifically suggested that equivocal results from the initial challenge in the GPMT should he evaluated further with a repeated challenge. However, there exist few published rechallenge data and the guideline does not describe how rechallenge data should be interpreted. In this paper, we have used examples from published results to illustrate both the positive value and the limitations of repeated challenges, including cross challenge. Testing with modified concentrations may also help to indicate whether or not the response is allergic in nature, particularly where there has been a low level of skin reaction observed in shamtreated controls, or where a low level of skin reaction is the dominant response in the test animals. In conclusion, the data presented demonstrate that, as a tool for the investigation of skin sensitizing potential, the GPMT can benefit from an experienced scientific evaluation of rechallenge data, but that this information should not be treated in a mechanistic fashion.
Contact allergy to the active ingredients of Bioban P 1487
Authors: Gruvgerger Birgitta , Bruze Magnus , Zimerson Erik
Published: April 2006

Bioban P 1487. consisting of the 2 active ingredients 4‐[2‐nitrobutylt]‐morpholine (M) and 4.4′‐(2‐ethyl‐2‐nitro‐1.3‐propanediyl)‐his morpholine (DM), is a preservative recommended for metal working fluids. The aims of this study were to assess the frequency of contact allergy so Bioban P 1487. when added 10 a standard patch lest series, as well us to test the individual active ingredients in patient‐ sensitized to Bioban P 1487. Of the patients consecutively tested, 1.5% reacted positively to Bioban P 1487. Positive test reactions were noted in only 4 of 12 Bioban P 1487‐sensitized patients tested with the individual active ingredient. Both active ingredients are contact sensitizers. but in most patients with this contact allergy it remains difficult to identify the sensitizing hapten.
IL–1β protein in human skin lymph does not discriminate allergic from irritant contact dermatitis
Authors: Brand Ch. U. , Hunzider Th. , Yawalkar N. , Braathen L. R.
Published: April 2006

Recent data suggest a key rôle for IL‐1β in the induction phase of allergic contact dermatitis. In the present study, (he protein levels of IL‐1β were measured in skin lymph derived from normal untreated skin as well as from irritant and allergic (induction and elicitation phase) contact dermatitis. IL‐1β increased in the course of both types of contact dermatitis, displaying the highest levels in irritant CD. Using a reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, low signal strength of IL‐1β mRNA was demonstrated in lymph cells derived from normal skin and allergic CD. In lymph cells collected 2 × daily during the induction phase of allergic contact dermatitis, no upregulation of the IL‐1β mRNA signal was found. Isolated CD 1a+ lymph cells derived from normal skin us welt as from the induction and elicitation phase of allergic contact dermatitis did not express IL‐1β mRNA. Our results demonstrate that in human skin lymph, the IL‐1β p profiles do not discriminate between irritant and allergic contact dermatitis and that besides resident epidermal and dermal cells, circulating lymph cells may also contribute to 1L‐1β protein production.
1‐ versus 2‐ and 3‐day diagnostic patch testing
Authors: Manuskiatti Woraphong , Maibach Howard I.
Published: April 2006

One inconvenience of the routine patch test technique is the 2‐day patch wear. Adjusting the routine patch lest technique to a shorter allergen exposure would he more comfortable for the patient. Studies define this feasibility: the available data do not permit a definite answer as to the suitability of l‐day application. An idealized protocol suitable for resolving this issue is presented
Individual, ethnic and seasonal variability in irritant susceptibility of skin: the implications for a predictive human patch test
Authors: Basketter D. A. , Griffiths H. A. , Wang X. M. , Wilhelm K.‐P. , McFadden J.
Published: April 2006

Since irritants are the major cause of contact dermatitis, it is important to identify those chemicals that possess significant ability to cause skin irritation. This process must then be followed by risk assessment and risk management. Historically, animal tests have played a major rôle in this process, but human volunteer studies are of increasing importance in the field. Where the appropriate safely and ethical controls are in place, human testing can give data that identities skin irritation hazard. To be of widest value, these human studies must not he flawed due to inter‐individual, inter‐ethnic or seasonal variation. We conducted a large dose‐response study and studied the impact of summer and winter weather on a predictive human assay. Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) was tested at 0.1%‐20% in 3 national groups of approximately 100 volunteers, using 25 mm Hill Top chambers loaded with 0.2 ml solution and applied to the tipper outer arm for 4 h. Reactions were scored at 24. 48 and/or 72 h after patch application. The German and Chinese studies were completed in a few weeks under. similar winter conditions, whereas the UK work was spread fairly evenly over about a 15‐month period Some relatively minor differences were observed in the dose‐response curves obtained, probably due to weather conditions. The effect of me weather on the intensity, but not the put tern, of irritant reactivity was also evident in the smaller specific study that assessed reactions to SDS in summer and in winter. Whereas 45% of the panel reacted to 20% SDS in summer, 9l% reacted in the winter. However, in both studies, substantial inter‐individual variations in response to SDS dominated the pattern of response. When designing a human patch test to discriminate skin irritant substances from those that are of minimal effect, it is this inter‐individual variability, rather than any small inter‐ethnic or seasonal variation, which must be taken into account. This can be achieved by the routine inclusion of a suitable positive irritant control, which then calibrates each human volunteer panel.
Suboptimal non‐inflammatory concentrations of haptens may elicit a contact sensitivity reaction when used as a mix
Authors: Krasteva M. , Garrigue J. L. , Horrand F. , Tchou I. , Descotes J. , Nicolas J. F.
Published: April 2006

Contact dermatitis is a cutaneous inflammatory reaction mediated by hapten‐specific T cells. We used a murine model to investigate the contact sensitivity reaction elicited by different concentrations (optimal and suboptimal) of the haptens DNFB and oxazolone applied singly or in combination. The simultaneous application of DNFB and oxazolone at optimal concentrations (0.2% and 0.4% respectively) did not significantly increase the ear swelling response induced by each of the allergens when applied singly. No contact sensitivity response was observed when the haptens were tested individually at subthreshold concentrations (0.05% and 0.1% respectively). However mixing the 2 molecules at the same concentrations gave rise to a clinical contact sensitivity reaction. The simultaneous application of the haptens at a 2× higher, but still suboptimal concentrations (0.1% and 0.2% respectively), elicited an inflammatory response that was significantly greater than the responses elicited by either of the haptens when applied separately. These results suggest that a “false‐positive” reaction to a mix may reveal a genuine sensitization to the constituents.
Contact dermatitis from fatty alcohols
Authors: Tosti Antonella , Vincenzi Colombina , Guerra Liliana , Andrisano Enza
Published: April 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of sensitization to fatty alcohols in a group of patients with suspected cosmetic or medicament contact dermatitis. From May 1992 to September 1995. we patch tested a series of 5 Italy alcohols on 140 patients. These included 108 females and 38 males aged from 13 to 12 years (mean age 42.5). These patients, who had previously been tested with the GIRDCA standard series, were selected because their clinical lesions or histories indicated topical preparations as the possible source of their contact dermatitis. High‐grade fatly alcohols (>99% pure) were used for testing. 34 patients (23.2%). 25 female and 9 male aged from 14 to 72 years, showed a positive patch lest to fatty alcohols. 33 of them to oleyl alcohol. A total of 39 reactions were detected with 5 patients showing more than I positive reaction. Our results show that senzitization to oleyl alcohol is not rare in patients with contact dermatitis due to cosmetics or topical medicaments.
Occupational contact dermatitis from propacetamol
Authors: Szczurko C. , Dompmartin A. , Michel M. , Castel B. , Leroy D.
Published: April 2006

We report 4 cases of contact sensitization to propacetamol. The presented with legions on the hands, forearms, crease of the elbows, and neck. They were all sensitized to multiple allergens and 2 of them were atopic. Patch tests to Pro‐Dafalgan® and propacetamol were positive: sodium citrate and paracetamol were negative. Our cases were similar to those published for the first time by Barbaud in 1995. The only allergen was propacetamol: patch tests with diethyglycine and paracetamol were negative. Propacetamol chlorhydrate is composed of a complex paracetamol‐diethylgycine, which probably acts like a hapten capable of inducing cutaneous allergy. It is an occupational allergy affecting nurses who work in surgery departments or post‐ancsthesia recovery rooms, where high doses of analgesics are widely used. The patients were not allergic lo oral paracetamol. Despite the usual precautions, the mixture of propacetamol chlorhydrate and solvent leaks onto the nurses' hands, suggesting that health care workers handling propacetamol chlorhydrate should wear gloves.
The effect of topically applied corticosteroid on irritant and allergic patch test reactions
Authors: Green Cathy
Published: April 2006

The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of topical corticosteroid on the patch test response in patients with known positive allergens and also to study any effect on the irritant response. In Study 1, 10 patients with known positive allergens had their backs pre‐treated 2× daily for 3 days with either betamethasone dipropionate 0.5% or the equivalent ointment base. On day 4, previous known allergens and dilutions of sodium lauryl sulfate (5% and 10%) as an irritant were applied to each side of the back. In Study 2 (4 patients), a 1:4 dilution of betamethasone dipropionate was substituted for the full‐strength preparation. Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% caused total or partial suppression of the allergic reaction in 8 of in eases. The 1:4 dilution caused partial suppression in 3 cases. The irritant reaction was totally suppressed by betamethasone dipropionate in 1 of 10 cases and partially suppressed in 7 of 10. The 1:4 dilution decreased the intensity of the irritant reaction in 3 of 4 cases. The relevance of these results to clinical practice is discussed.
Footwear contact dermatitis in children
Authors: Roul S. , Ducombs G. , Leaute‐Labreze C. , Labbe L. , Taïeb A.
Published: April 2006

8 children aged 1 to 13 years, clinically suspected of having contact dermatitis due to footwear, have been studied in our Paediatric Dermatology Unit from January 1980 to September 1995. Patch tests have been performed with the European standard series and with constituents of the patients' own shoes. In our study, patients appeared to be predominantly sensitive to rubber chemicals. Avoiding shoes or materials that had been identified improved the symptoms in most cases.
Content and reactivity to product perfumes in fragrance mix positive and negative eczema patients
Authors: Johansen J. D. , Rastogi S. C. , Andersen K. E. , Menné T.
Published: April 2006

The aim of the study was in investigate the elicitation potential of perfumes from 17 commonly sold lower‐price cosmetic products. 8 of the perfumes were from stay‐on cosmetics and 9 were from wash‐off cosmetics. Each perfume was tested in 500 consecutive eczema patients, who also were tested with the European standard patch test series. 4.2% reacted to 1 or more of the wash‐off product perfumes and 3.2% to 1 or more of the stay‐on product perfumes. Concordant positive reactions between the fragrance mix and the product perfumes were found in 81.3% of positive reactions to the stay‐on product perfumes and in 52.4% of the reactions to the wash‐off product perfumes. Compared to the fragrance mix alone, only 1 additional case of contact allergy to the product perfumes was detected by balsam of Peru. Chemical analysis revealed that between 1 and 5 of the chemically‐defined constituents of the fragrance mix were present in all of the product perfumes. Geraniol was found in 12 of the 17 perfumes and was most often detected. The concentration of the target fragrance materials ranged from 0.005%–1.35 w/v% It is concluded that the allergenic constituents of the fragrance mix are impossible to avoid if perfumed cosmetics are used. Furthermore, patients suspected of perfume allergy need to be tested with their own perfumed products, as far from all cases of perfume allergy are detected by the fragrance mix and/or balsam of Peru in the European standard patch test series.
Cross‐reaction patterns in patients with contact allergy to simple methylol phenols
Authors: Bruze Magnus , Zimerson Erik
Published: April 2006

The low‐molecular‐weight phenols 2‐methylol phenol (2‐MP), 4‐methylol phenol (4‐MP), 2,4,6‐trimethylol phenol (2,4,6‐MP), 3‐methylol phenol (3‐MP), 2,4‐dimethylol phenol (2,4‐MP), and 2,6‐dimethylol phenol (2,6‐MP) are contact sensitizers in resins leased on phenol and formaldehyde (P‐F‐R). Other chemically related low‐molecular‐weight phenols are common in the environment. In patients hypersensitive to P‐F‐R and MPs, it is for diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive reasons necessary to know their cross‐reaction patterns, which this study was therefore designed to investigate. In patients with contact allergy to a P‐F‐R and at least 1 MP, additional patch testing was performed with 6 MPs and 13 chemically related compounds. The 19 substances were tested at equimolar concentrations and in serial dilutions. Investigations by high‐performance liquid chromatography were carried out to exclude contamination as the cause of the patch test reactions. Probable cross‐reacting substances were o‐cresol, p‐cresol, salicylaldehyde, 2.4‐dimethyl phenol, and 2.6‐dimetrwl phenol.
Skin tests in the diagnosis of eruptions caused by betalactams
Authors: Lisi P. , Lapomarda V. , Stingeni L. , Assalve D. , Hansel K. , Caraffini S. , Agostinelli D.
Published: April 2006

The aetiologic evaluation of adverse cutaneous reactions to penicillin's is still not an easy problem to solve. Skin testing is usually earned out intradermally with benzylpenicilloyl polylysine (BPO‐PPL) and minor determinant mixture (MDM), but these are often unsuitable for the detection of sensitivity to betalactam antibiotics. 101 selected subjects, with different cutaneous reactions to betalactams and with a clinical history of positive challenge, were skin tested (patch lest, prick test, intradermal test) with a standard betalactam series (amoxycillin, sodium penicillin G, ampicillin, bacampicillin, aztreonam, ceftriazone, BPO‐PPL, MDM). 1 or more positive reactions to skin tests, mainly to intradermal tests, were observed in 47.5% of the subjects studied, especially in those with maculopapular eruptions, urticaria/angioedema and drug reactions caused by ampicillin and amoxycillin. Cross‐sensitivity was demonstrated in 22.8% of cases and was due almost solely to the semi synthetic penicillin. Finally, to increase the yield in detecting positive patients, it is necessary that ampicillin and amoxycillin be tested in addition to major and minor determinants.
A study of dermatitis in the lacquerware industry
Authors: Kullavanijaya Preya , Ophaswongse Suwirakorn
Published: April 2006

Contact dermatitis from lacquer has been documented. The causative agent is a resin from a lacquer trees that induce either irritation or sensitization. Thai and Japanese lacquer trees 2 distinct species hut are both members of the Anacardiaceae family. We report 3 eases of contact dermatitis from Thai lacquer resin. Observation and study of the lacquer plantation and working process at the factory were made to elucidate the aetiology of the dermatitis.
Barrier recovery and influence of irritant stimuli in skin treated with a moisturizing cream
Authors: Lodén Marie
Published: April 2006

Moisturizers are used daily by many people to alleviate symptoms of clinically and subjectively dry skin. Recent studies suggest that certain ingredients in creams may accelerate the recovery of a disrupted barrier and decrease the skin susceptibility to irritant stimuli. In the present single‐blind study, a moisturizing cream was tested for its influence both on barrier recovery in surfuctant‐damaged skin and on the susceptibility of normal skin to exposure to the irritant sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). Parameters measured were transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin corneometer values, indicating degree of hydration. Treatment of surfactant‐damaged skin with the test cream for 14 days promoted barrier recovery, as observed as a decrease in TEWL. Skin corneometer values also normalized more rapidly during the treatment. In normal skin, use or the test cream significantly reduced TFWL after 14 days of treatment, and irritant reactions to SLS were, significantly decreased. Skin corneometer values increased after only 1 application and remained elevated after 14 days. In conclusion, the accelerated rate of recovery of surfactant‐damaged skin and the lower degree of SLS‐induced irritation in normal skin treated with the test cream may be of clinical relevance in attempts to reduce contact dermatitis due to irritant stimuli.
Patch testing in discoid eczema
Authors: Fleming Colin , Parry Eileen , Forsyth Angela , Kemmett Danny
Published: April 2006

We report a retrospective study of patch testing in patients with discoid eczema. 48 patients with persistent or severe discoid eczema were patch tested. The mean age of patients was 45 years and the median duration of symptoms was 6 months. 24 patients (50%) had positive patch tests, and 16 of these (33%) were considered to be clinically relevant. The most common allergens implicated were rubber chemicals, formaldehyde, neomycin, chrome, nickel (5, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2 reactions, respectively). 13 of 16 patients were followed up by telephone in 1996, and 8/13 (61%) slated they had benefited from patch testing. This study suggests allergic contact dermatitis is relatively common in persistent discoid eczema, and allergen avoidance may be of benefit. We recommend patch testing should be considered for all patients with severe or persistent discoid eczema.
Extraction of mercaptobenzothiazole compounds from rubber products
Authors: Hansson C. , Bergendorff O. , Ezzelarab M. , Sterner O.
Published: April 2006

At evaluation of contact dermatitis caused by solid material, patch testing is usually performed with the material as such and with extracts of it. In this study, optimization of the extraction technique monitored by quantitative HPLC analysis of the extracted haptens is described for mercaptobenzothiazole derivatives. Several solvents with different properties are included. Acetone has traditionally been a solvent widely used for the extraction of organic haptens from solid products. However, acetone and other ketones are not inert solvents. The rubber accelerators 2‐(4‐morpholi‐nyl mercapto) benzothiazole (MMBT) and N‐cydoliexyl‐2‐benzoihiazyl sulfenamide (CBS) react with acetone, yielding 2 new compounds, which were isolated and characterised by NMR and MS. For the extraction of solid rubber products, methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) was found to be a more suitable solvent which is unreactive to most common haptens.
Contact allergy to oxidized d‐limonene among dermatitis patients
Authors: Karlberg Ann‐Therese , Dooms‐Goossens An
Published: April 2006

d‐Limonene. obtained as a by‐product from the citrus juice industry was introduced on the market as a more environmentally friendly defatting and cleaning agent than the traditionally used organic solvents. Autoxidation of d‐limonene readily occurs to give a variety of oxygenated monocyclic terpenes that are strong contact allergens. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of contact allergy to air exposed d‐limonene among dermatitis patients. A fraction consisting of d‐limonene hydroperoxides was also tested. Screening with oxidized d‐limonene will detect cases of allergic contact dermatitis. Additional cases were detected when testing with the fraction of limonene hydroperoxides. The proportion of positive patch test reactions to oxidized d‐limonene was comparable to that seen for several of the allergens within the standard series. An increased UAT of d‐limonene containing allergenic oxidation products in industry where high concentrations are used, as well as in domestic exposure, might result in contact sensitization and dermatitis. Patients reacting to d‐limonene often reacted to fragrance mix, balsam of Peru and colophony in the standard series.
Results of patch testing with a special series of rubber allergens
Authors: Holness D. Linn , Nethercott James R.
Published: April 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine the results of patch testing with the rubber components on a standard screening tray and compare them with the results of testing with a special series of 27 rubber components (rubber tray). 1670 patients were patch tested with the screening tray and 317 of these were also tested with the rubber tray 16% of those tested with the rubber tray had a positive response to at least 1 of the rubber allergens on the screening tray and 22% had a positive response to at least 1 of the allergens on the rubber tray. The most common positive response to the rubber tray allergens was to tetramethylthiuram monosulfide. There were no responses to 3 of the components on the rubber tray and there was only 1 positive response to a further 4 components. The diagnostic test characteristics of the rubber components on the screening tray were examined using the rubber tray as the gold standard. The sensitivity of the screening tray was 94%, specificity 51%, positive predictive value 87%, and negative predictive value 71% Of the 317 tested. 11%, were found to have a positive to a substance on the rubber tray that was not evident from the results of the screening tray patch testing technique: allergic contact dermatitis; rubber allergens: false‐negative reactions: fake‐positive reactions.
Epidemiological significance of bufexamac as a frequent and relevant contact sensitizer
Authors: Kränke B. , Szolar‐Platzer C. , Komericki P. , Dderhaschnig J. , Aberer W.
Published: April 2006

Bufexumae‐containing ointments and creams are widely used by many patients with eczematous disorders as an alternative to topical corticosteroids. Recent studies provide evidence of is notable prevalence of contact sensitization in patch test populations. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of use of this topically‐applied drug by eczema patients in general, and to evaluate its potential to cause allergic contact reactions. 500 routinely patch tested patients (f:m=377:123) were tested with bufexamac 5% and Parfenac® ointment (the only commercial product available in Austria I in addition lo the standard and other series of the German Contact Dermatitis Group. The packaging of the commercial product was shown to the entire study population, to decide whether or not they had ever used this product. In addition, their general practitioner was contacted to verify the anamnestic data. A total of 30 patients agreed (hut they had definitely used bufexamac. 5 others having probably applied it. The indication for and the duration of treatment were noted. Positive and relevant patch test reactions to bufexamac, as well as the bufexamc‐containing ointment, ointment, were seen in 2(1 out of these 35 patients (57%). and sensitization occurred even alter short‐term application. Our study demonstrates that bufexamac has to be assumed lo be a topical drug with a very high sensitization rate in an unselected patch test population (4% of 500 patients), and should therefore be added to the standard series.
The significance of previous allergic contact dermatitis for elicitation of delayed hypersensitivity to nickel
Authors: Hindsén Monica , Bruze Magnus , Christensen Ole B.
Published: April 2006

Several factors, such as amount of allergen, vehicle, anatomic site, immunologic status and previous eczema, may influence delayed hypersensitivity reactions. In an extended model, we have studied the significance of previous allergic contact dermatitis for elicitation of delayed hypersensitivity to nickel in 25 nickel‐allergic females. On 3 occasions, 8, 4 and 1 months before the final challenge patch testing, an experimental allergic contact dermatitis from nickel was induced on the lower back. At the challenge patch testing, 4 identical dilution series of nickel were tested on 4 areas on the lower back 3 with previous but healed dermatitis and I control area. The tests were read in a blind way. A significantly higher test reactivity was found at the areas with a previous allergic contact dermatitis, the shorter the time interval between the previous provocation and the challenge, the stronger the reaction. These results may be of importance for the understanding of factors contributing to chronicity of allergic contact dermatitis.
Contact urticaria due to rubber chemicals?
Authors: Brehler R. , Sedlmayr S.
Published: April 2006

Contact urticaria due to gloves is mostly related to immediate‐type allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL), and rarely due to rubber chemicals. We report the results of prick tests with rubber chemicals curried out on 75 latex‐allergic patients. Clinically relevant hypersensitivity was not observed in our patient collection. Thus, we conclude that contact urticaria due to rubber chemicals is a very rare finding in latex‐allergic patients, but has to be considered in patients with contact urticaria due to synthetic rubber gloves, as well as in patients with contact urticaria due to NRL gloves but no latex, allergy. Therefore prick tests with rubber chemicals are unnecessary in the routine diagnostic assessment of latex‐allergic patients.
Dermatitis in Ecuadorean farm workers
Authors: Cole Donald C. , Carpio Fernando , Julian Jim , Léon Ninfa
Published: April 2006

Using a cross‐sectional survey of potato farm workers in northern Ecuador, we examined the relationship between pesticide exposure and skin disorders, From a farm population census, all pesticide applicators and 1/2 of exposed field workers were selected. Controls were age‐matched from urban occupations. Individual exposure measures included overall years and current hours working with pesticides. Farm‐level measures included numbers of applications over the last 6 months and an application practices score (range 0–4). Each participant underwent a clinical skin examination, with patch tests to maneb on a sample of dermatitis cases. Exposure‐related increase in conjunctivitis (7% of applicators, 0% in other groups), dermatitis (68% of exposed and 55%. of applicators versus 31% of controls. p < 0.001) and pigmentation disorders (25% of exposed and applicators vs 10%, controls. p=0.0.06) were found. Among dermatitis cases (n=117). 5% were positive to maneb on patch testing. In logistic regression analysts, significant predictors (p < 0.1) of dermatitis included years using fungicides (OR=1.12 per year) and poor application practices (OR=1.42 per score unit). Agricultural fungicide application in high‐exposure situations can contribute to dermatitis prevalence among farm populations.