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1996

CIS 03-188 Matchaba-Hove R., Emmett E.A., Sekimpi D.K., Agaba D.F., Okot-Nwang M., Ogaram D.A., Tornberg V., Estlander T., Kanerva L., Piirilä P., Lehtinen S., Munthali A.C., Zakayo D.O.
Allergies and work
This issue is primarily devoted to the theme of occupational allergies. Contents: prevention of occupational dermatoses; occupational coffee dust allergies in Uganda; allergic dermatoses and respiratory diseases caused by decorative plants. Other topics: review article on a symposium on the development of occupational health services held in Singapore; role of the occupational hygiene profession in sustainable development; problems due to AIDS at the workplace in Kenya.
African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, May 1996, Vol.6, No.1, p.1-22 (whole issue). Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 00-1674 Schneider J., Blum E., Solbach T., Woitowitz H.-J.
Atopic influences on allergic obstructive diseases of the respiratory tract due to flour
Einfluss von Atopien auf allergisch bedingte obstruktive Atemwegserkrankungen in Mehlberufen [in German]
Topics: allergic respiratory disorders; anamnesis; asthma; change of employment; flour; individual susceptibility; inhalation tests; skin tests.
Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Aug. 1996, Vol.46, No.8, p.278-286. Illus. 49 ref.

CIS 00-1673 Geier J., Kleinhans D., Peters K.P.
Contact allergy from industrial biocides - Results of the IVDK and the German contact dermatitis research group
Kontaktallergien durch industriell verwendete Biozide - Ergebnisse des Informationsverbundes Dermatologischer Kliniken (IVDK) und der Deutschen Kontaktallergiegruppe [in German]
Topics: allergens; biocides; Bioban P 1487; formaldehyde; chemical products; dermatitis; epidemiology; Germany; metalworking industry; preservatives; skin allergies; skin tests.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.44, No.4, p.154-159. 10 ref.

CIS 99-1210 Koch P., Nickolaus G., Geier J.
Contact allergies in the tanning, leather and footwear industries - A five-year analysis based on data collected by the information service of the dermatological clinics' association
Kontaktallergien bei Lederherstellern, Lederverarbeitern und in der Schuhindustrie - Fünf-Jahres-Analyse auf der Grundlage von Daten des Informationsverbundes Dermatologischer Kliniken [in German]
Topics: allergens; dyes; epidemiologic study; Germany; leather and fur industries; preservatives; sensitization; shoe industry; skin allergies; tanning agents; tanning industry.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Nov.-Dec. 1996, Vol.44, No.6, p.257-262. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 98-1635 Budde-Wamhoff U.
Health promotion in hairdressing
Gesundheitsförderung im Friseurhandwerk [in German]
Topics: dermatitis; eczema; Germany; hairdressing; health programmes; musculoskeletal diseases; questionnaire survey; round-up; skin allergies.
G. Conrad, Verlag für Gesundheitsförderung, Uissigheimer Str. 10, 97956 Hamburg, Germany, 1996. 207p. Illus. approx. 404 ref. Price: DEM 53.00.

CIS 98-215 Kujala V.M., Reijula K.E.
Glove-related rhinopathy among hospital personnel
Allergic rhinitis among hospital personnel using natural rubber latex gloves. Topics: allergic rhinitis; epidemiologic study; health care personnel; hospitals; hypersensitivity; latex; protective gloves; pulmonary function; serological reactions; skin tests.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1996, Vol.30, No.2, p.164-170. 28 ref.

CIS 97-1253 Lühmann D., Strubelt O., Kirchner H.
Effects on the human immune system of occupational exposure to metallic mercury
Einfluss gewerblicher Exposition gegenüber metallischem Quecksilber auf das menschliche Immunsystem [in German]
Mercury (Hg) concentration in blood samples taken from 12 male workers in a mercury recovery plant were compared with that from two groups of controls. The mean Hg concentration in the mercury workers' blood (9.84µg/L) was almost 6 times higher than that in the control groups. The Hg concentration in the urine of exposed workers (9 to 340µg/L) was also considerably higher than that in the control groups (around 1µg/L). However, no correlation between Hg concentration in the blood and immunological parameters could be found. The somewhat higher concentration of leucocytes and neutrophilic granulocytes in the blood of exposed workers was due to the higher percentage of smokers among the workers than among the controls (70% versus 30% and 20%). Smoking is also seen as the cause of the slightly lower percentage of T-lymphocytes in the blood of exposed workers. The somewhat lower serum IgM concentration in the exposed workers than in control group 2 is explained by the presence of women in that control group. No differences among the 3 groups were found with regard to other immunological parameters. No evidence of an effect of mercury exposure on the immune system was found.
Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Feb. 1996, Vol.46, No.2, p.49-57. Illus. 39 ref.

CIS 97-596 Cavelier C., Foussereau J.
Contact allergy to metals and their salts
Allergie de contact aux métaux et à leurs sels [in French]
The principal topics of this information note are: allergy tests and allergological investigations; chromium; nickel; cobalt; mercury; palladium; other metals; differential diagnosis. In annex: hard metals; metal plating; alloys; basic data on corrosion; table of concentrations used in tests for allergies to various metallic salts.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 3rd Quarter 1996, No.67, p-199-238. approx. 400 ref.

CIS 97-556 Yokota K., Joyama Y., Yamaguchi K., Fijiki Y., Takeshita T., Morimoto K.
Study on allergic rhinitis in workers exposed to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride
Methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride (MTHPA) is used as a hardening agent in an epoxy resin system. Because work-related nasal symptoms were observed in some workers exposed to MTHPA at two condenser plants, a cross-sectional survey was performed to improve their work environment. Mean MTHPA levels in the manufacturing processes to which the workers were routinely assigned were extremely low (1.09-22.4µg/m³). However, specific IgE antibody (S-IgE) was detected in 9 (32%) of 28 workers. Of these, 8 (89%) had nasal symptoms. An IgE-mediated mechanism seems to be associated with at least some of the cases of work-related nasal symptoms. This indicates that the occupational health administration of MTHPA cannot be controlled simply by limiting exposure in the work environment. Total IgE (T-IgE) levels averaged 200.5 units/mL in S-IgE-positive workers and 51.3 units/mL in S-IgE-negative workers. This implies that workers in whom the T-IgE level is 80 IU/mL or less should be assigned to work in these manufacturing processes.
Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, Oct. 1996, Vol.1, No.3, p.133-135. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 96-2309 Erlam A.R., Johnson A.J., Wiley K.N.
Occupational asthma in greenhouse tomato growing
An employee in a commercial tomato growing greenhouse developed asthma of increasing severity over a period of eight years. Occupational asthma was diagnosed. Initial allergy testing was negative, but further investigation of the workplace gave rise to suspicion of arthropod allergy. Immunological testing confirmed sensitization to red spider mite.
Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1996, Vol.46, No.2, p.163-164. 9 ref.

CIS 96-2204 Hunt L.W., Boone-Orke J.L., Fransway A.F., Fremstad C.E., Jones R.T., Swanson M.C., McEvoy M.T., Miller L.K., Majerus E.T., Luker P.A., Scheppmann D.L., Webb M.J., Yunginger J.W.
A medical-center-wide, multidisciplinary approach to the problem of natural rubber latex allergy
Allergic reactions among health care staff at a medical centre were associated with the use of natural rubber latex gloves. A multidisciplinary task force was established to identify latex-sensitized employees and to reduce the risk of further sensitization. Diagnosis of latex allergy was based on a suggestive clinical history plus either a positive skin prick test to a prepared latex extract or a positive latex-specific IgE measurement. Gloves with a high allergen content were phased out and replaced by low-allergen rubber or synthetic gloves. Latex aeroallergen levels subsequently declined and expenditure on gloves was reduced.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1996, Vol.38, No.8, p.765-770. 21 ref.

CIS 96-2183 Lear J.T., Heagerty A.H.M., Tan B.B., Smith A.G., English J.S.C.
Transient re-emergence of oil of turpentine allergy in the pottery industry
Allergy to oil of turpentine has diminished largely due to the use of cheaper substitutes in many occupations. This study reports 24 cases of hand dermatitis in pottery workers involved in ceramic decoration, namely paintresses, liners, gilders, enamellers and a fine china painter, seen in a 6-month period following a change from Portuguese to Indonesian turpentine, of whom 14 were sensitive to Indonesian turpentine, eight to α-pinene, four to delta-3-carene and two to turpentine peroxides. Turpentine allergy continues to be a problem in the pottery industry and is more common than allergy to the heavy metals of the colours used in ceramic decoration. Reversion to Portuguese turpentine seems to have alleviated the problem.
Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 1996, Vol.35, No.3, p.169-172. 16 ref.

CIS 96-2182 Kanerva L., Estlander T., Jolanki R.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from spices
About 1,000 patients were investigated for occupational skin disease in Finland during 1991-1995. Five of them had occupational allergic contact dermatitis from spices. The patients were chefs or kitchen, coffee room and restaurant workers. All patients had hand dermatitis. The causative spices were garlic, cinnamon, ginger, allspice and clove. The same patients also had allergic patch test reactions to some food, such as tomato, lettuce and carrot. Paprika elicited a weak allergic patch test reaction in two patients. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from spices is relatively rare, but needs to be taken into consideration in patients who have hand dermatitis and work with spices and food. Patch testing with spices as is is useful, but testing with dilutions in pet. may be needed to confirm that the patch test reactions are allergic. Patients also need to be prick tested with spices and food.
Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 1996, Vol.35, No.3, p.157-162. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 96-2178 Lamminpää A., Estlander T., Jolanki R., Kanerva L.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by decorative plants
Twelve cases of occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by decorative plants were diagnosed in a 14-year period. The patients were middle-aged and their average exposure time was 13 years. The plant families and pants causing allergic contact dermatitis were: Compositae (5 patients; chrysanthemum, elecampane, gerbera, feverfew), Alstroemeriaceae (5 patients; alstroemeria), Liliaceae (4 patients; tulip, hyacinth), Amaryllidaceae (2 patients; narcissus) and Caryophyllaceae (2 patients; carnation, cauzeflower). The known chemical allergens causing dermatitis were tuliposide-A and sesquiterpene lactones in the Compositae and Liliaceae families. Seven of the 12 patients were able to continue their work. The other five were not because of severe relapses of skin symptoms. The plant allergen and extract series currently available are of great help in the diagnosis.
Contact Dermatitis, May 1996, Vol.34, No.5, p.330-335. 35 ref.

CIS 96-1087 Kanerva L.
Occupational IgE-mediated protein contact dermatitis from pork in a slaughterman
A non-atopic 24-year-old man had previously had no skin symptoms. Having worked for one month in a slaughterhouse, where he was exposed to animal (pig) flesh and epithelium, he developed redness and itching of the hands, and later, severe exfoliative hand dermatitis which cleared when away from work but relapsed within days back at work. Patch testing and scoring were performed on his back. A modified European standard series gave a positive reaction to chromate but was otherwise negative. Patch testing with pork meat and fat and prick tests with 24 common environmental allergens, including epithelia and natural rubber latex, were both negative, as were prick tests with flour, pork meat and pork fat; a 15-min use test with pork meat on the skin was also negative, but the Magic Lite immunochemiluminometric assay for the detection of specific IgE antibody with both pork meat and pork epithelium clearly indicated IgE-mediated allergy. Contact urticaria caused by pork meat has seldom been reported, but may not be so rare.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1996, Vol.34, No.4, p.301-302. 8 ref.

CIS 96-1083 Galindo P.A., Melero R., García R., Feo F., Gómez E., Fernández F.
Contact urticaria from chironomids
A 35-year-old man, with a previous history of propifenazone allergy, worked in a chemist's (drugstore), but as a hobby, kept fish in an aquarium at home. He fed these fish with dried Chironomus plumosus and frozen Chironomus spp red midge larvae. He gave a six-year history of contact urticaria 15min after handling such fish food: conjunctivitis and eyelid oedema could also occur. The urticaria resolved spontaneously in 1-2h and from then on he handled the frozen chironomus spp with latex gloves without any problems. Specific IgE for Chironomus thummi was strongly positive at 56.1kU/L; total IgE was normal (86.5kU/L). There were strong positive reactions to prick tests with both frozen and dried Chrionomus extracts. No such positive reactions were obtained in 10 healthy and 10 atopic subjects, although a rub test with both kinds of fish food showed local urticaria after 15min. This is the second known case of Chironomus allergy to be reported from Spain.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1996, Vol.34, No.4, p.297. 5 ref.

CIS 96-873 Heino T., Haapa K., Manelius F.
Contact sensitization to organosilane solution in glass filament production
Following recent reports of sensitization to silanes used as bonding agents between glass and resin in the coating of glass filaments, 61 workers in a glass fibre factory were exposed to a new coating mixture which contained polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, acetic acid and organosilane solution. At the same time, six other coating solutions were also in use. Eight workers developed an itchy erythematous papular dermatitis on parts of the body directly in contact with coating solutions. All had dermatitis on the hands, wrists and forearms, and, in addition, three on the face and the neck. All eight patients were patch tested with the standard series, a series of plastics and glues, and 20 substances in the coatings. Six out of eight patients tested were positive to one or more substances and, in all of these, occupational allergic contact dermatitis was confirmed. Five reacted to epoxy resin and two to formaldehyde, present in one coating solution as preservative. Organosilane solution is an important source of contact sensitization in the production of glass filaments.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1996, Vol.34, No.4, p.294. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 96-615 Nielsen J.
The occurrence and course of skin symptoms on the hands among female cleaners
Skin symptoms on the hands were studied in questionnaire-based studies conducted in 1989 and 1991 among female cleaning personnel employed at Danish nursing homes, schools and offices. A total of 1,166 participated in 1989, and 1,011 of them participated in 1991. The average age was 45 years and the average length of seniority was 10 years. One-fifth of the cleaners reported problems with cleaning agents. A total of 81% had wet hands for more than one-quarter of their working hours and 43% reported having at least one out of four skin symptoms during a one-year period. Among them, 70% reported improvement during weekends and holidays. A positive correlation was found between hours per week spent with wet hands and skin symptoms. During the follow up period, the risk of developing skin symptoms was higher among the women who remained cleaners than among those who left their cleaning jobs. Accordingly, the prognosis was better in the group that left their cleaning jobs. Retirement occurred more often among cleaners with skin symptoms than among the others. There is a future need to develop new work organization and cleaning methods to reduce the time spent with wet hands.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1996, Vol.34, No.4, p.284-291. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 96-843 Lips R., Rast H., Elsner P.
Outcome of job change in patients with occupational chromate dermatitis
Patients with allergic contact dermatitis due to dichromate are reputed to have a bad prognosis. Under the Swiss Law on Accident Insurance, the Swiss National Accident Insurance Organization may issue a declaration of medical incapacity (DMI) in cases of severe occupational dichromate dermatitis. With such a DMI, an employee is not allowed to perform any further work bringing him into contact with dichromate or cement. In this study, medical records from 88 construction workers with such DMIs between 1986 and 1989 were reviewed. Follow-up was performed by standardized questionnaire: 63 patients (72%) recovered in the first few years after DMI. The majority of these patients had changed industry and strictly avoided all contact with cement or chromium salts and a few had retired early. The outcome of the study was favourable in comparison with studies from other countries without the DMI mechanism. Strict allergen avoidance, enforced by authorities, and financial support in the case of job change are crucial in improving the prognosis in occupational dichromate dermatitis.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1996, Vol.34, No.4, p.268-271. Illus. 9 ref.

1995

CIS 05-403 Allergies 1995
This catalogue presents details of research projects on allergies funded by the Work Environment Fund in 1995. A summary of each project, the duration, the budget and publications of persons responsible for the research are provided. It describes 17 research projects on respiratory tract allergies and 15 on skin allergies.
Arbetsmiljöfonden, The Swedish Work Environment Fund. Box 1122, 111 81 Stockholm, Sweden, 1995. 36p. Index.

CIS 97-1351 Schubert H.J.
Allergy to Asteraceae (Compositae) in the horticultural region of Erfurt
Allergie auf Asteraceae (Compositae) im Gartenbaugebiet Erfurt [in German]
All cases of skin diseases caused by contact with plants recorded in Erfurt, Germany, between 1973 and 1992 were re-evaluated. Included in the evaluation were all 86 cases of occupational dermatoses among horticulturists in Erfurt during that period. Of all plants involved in skin allergies, chrysanthemums cause the highest number of skin allergies. Horticulturists were affected most. It is assumed that a high exposure to allergens occurs when cuttings are taken for propagation of the chrysanthemums and when the plants are disbudded to obtain large flowers. The allergens are contained in the leaf and stem cells of the chrysanthemums and are lipid soluble so that they can easily penetrate into the skin.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Nov.-Dec.1995, Vol.43, No.6, p.257-261. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 96-1886 Botham P.A., Lamb C.T., Teasdale E.L., Bonner S.M., Tomenson J.A.
Allergy to laboratory animals: A follow up study of its incidence and of the influence of atopy and pre-existing sensitisation on its development
This follow-up prospective study investigated the incidence of allergy to laboratory animals (ALA) during the first two years of employment, and the effect on ALA of atopy and sensitization. The incidence of the disease during the first year of employment has remained at about 10% since the mid-1980s. The reduction in incidence and its maintenance at a lower level is thought to be due to the introduction and management of improved engineering controls, working practices, and educational programmes designed to reduce exposure to allergens from laboratory animals. The underlying incidence of immunological sensitization to animals (the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to animal allergens) is much higher (40% after one and 53% after two years of exposure). Both atopic diathesis and pre-sensitization to laboratory animals increased the likelihood that a person would develop ALA. Neither factor predicted the disease accurately, therefore their use should be restricted to the identification of people who may be more susceptible to the development of ALA.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1995, Vol.52, No.2, p.129-133. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 96-1682 Fitzgerald D.A., Heagerty A.H.M., English J.S.C.
Cold urticaria as an occupational dermatosis
A 45-year-old female pottery worker presented with a six-month history of intermittent swelling and itching of the hands. This generally occurred during the course of her work as a lithographer, which consisted of manually immersing transfers in a cold solution and applying them to pieces of finished pottery. She had no history of skin disease. Examination was initially unremarkable, but application of an ice cube wrapped in a polyethylene bag to the forearm for two minutes resulted in a pronounced urticaria weal, which persisted for approximately 30min and was accompanied by intense pruritus. Cold urticaria should be considered as a skin disease of potentially occupational origin.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1995, Vol.32, No.4, p.238. 7 ref.

CIS 96-1688 Innocenti A.
Atopy, asthma and the evaluation of preemployment fitness
Atopia, asma e guidizio di idoneità in preassunzione [in Italian]
It has been assumed that atopy, with a prevalence in the general population around 30%, is a predictive factor useful in the prevention of occupational allergic asthma, but literature data show that the hypothetical exclusion of 23% of total job applicants (because they are atopic) would seem to prevent only 55% of asthma cases. The pre-employment medical examination is a practice viewed as important by some Italian laws, but its efficacy with regard to atopy is a matter of controversy. The conclusion of the author is that the concept of discrimination in employment founded on the presence of atopy is scientifically unsubstantiated and ethically unacceptable.
Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1995, Vol.86, No.4, p.303-308. 36 ref.

CIS 96-1332 Susitaival P., Hannuksela M.
The 12-year prognosis of hand dermatosis in 896 Finnish farmers
896 Finnish farmers (309 men and 587 women), representing 77% of those reporting hand or forearm dermatosis in a questionnaire survey in 1979, were asked again about their dermatosis and current work in 1991. More than 50% of the study population had left farming since 1979. In 1991, 26% of men and 21% of women had a current dermatosis on the hands or forearms, and altogether, 44% of men and 39% of women reported a hand dermatosis within the preceding 12 months. Significant determinants of persistent hand dermatosis, in a logistic regression model, were continuation of farm work, history of skin atopy, symptoms of metal allergy, and age under 45 years. Handling cattle, e.g. milking, was considered an exacerbating factor of the dermatosis by 37% of those who had milked cattle at some time in their lives. In this group, 75% of hand dermatoses had healed in those who had ceased milking work. The results indicate that ceasing or changing work improves the prognosis of hand dermatosis in farming.
Contact Dermatitis, 1995, No.32, p.233-237. 28 ref.

CIS 96-1382 Maurer S., Seubert A., Seubert S., Fuchs T.
Contact dermatitis from textiles
Kontaktallergie auf Textilien [in German]
Between April 1992 and April 1994, 26 patients with contact dermatitis were subjected to patch tests with selected textile chemicals. Of the 26 patients, 21 were women aged 23-81 and five were men aged 22-58. In nine cases, positive reactions to one or more textile dyes were observed. Dark dyes, primarily various kinds of disperse blue, were involved. Three of the patients tested positively to textile finishes. Of 18 patients additionally tested with acetone-soaked samples of their clothing or shoes, five reacted positively. Allergic reactions to textiles in general are rare but should not be overlooked when diagnosing the causes of contact dermatitis.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Mar.-Apr. 1995, Vol. 43, No.2, p.63-68. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 96-887 Parslew R., King C.M., Evans S.
Primary sensitization to a single accidental exposure to a flame retardant and subsequent allergic contact dermatitis
Case report of a worker who suffered blistering of the skin after contact with a flame retardant containing 2,3-dibromocresylglycidyl ether. Corticosteroid treatment was effective. Patch testing verified sensitization to this compound. Primary sensitization resulting from a single exposure has been reported for several other substances, but not for this compound.
Contact Dermatitis, Oct. 1995, Vol.33, No.4, p.286. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 96-866 Congé-Salazar L., Guimaraens D., Villegas C., Romero A., Gonzalez M.A.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis in construction workers
The patch test results of 449 construction workers who came as patients to the Occupational Dermatology Service of the Instituto Nacional de Medicina y Seguridad del Trabajo in Madrid between 1989 and 1993 are reported. Of these, 90.8% were patch tested because they had cutaneous lesions or a clinical history suggestive of occupational dermatitis. Of those patch tested 65.5% (268) showed one or more reactions connected with their work. Chromate at 41.1% was the main allergen, followed by cobalt: 20.5%, nickel: 10%, and epoxy resin: 7.5%. 25.9% (106) of patients showed sensitization to rubber components, the majority at 23.7% to thiuram mix, with TETD being the main allergen.
Contact Dermatitis, Oct. 1995, Vol.33, No.4, p.226-230. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 96-863 Bruynzeel D.P., Tafelkruijer J., Wilks M.F.
Contact dermatitis due to a new fungicide used in the tulip bulb industry
An outbreak of contact dermatitis in a tulip bulb processing company is described. Shortly after the introduction of a new pesticide, the fungicide fluazinam, employees started to complain of dermatitis of the arms and the face. Eight employees were investigated and showed positive patch tests to fluazinam. The dermatitis disappeared quickly when they stopped work, but returned as soon as they restarted. Subsequent investigations showed that the fungicide had not been used according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Fluazinam was shown to be a strong sensitizer under these circumstances.
Contact Dermatitis, July 1995, Vol.33, No.1, p.8-11. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 96-874 Fuchs T.
Immediate allergic reaction to latex
Soforttypallergie auf Naturlatex [in German]
The following immediate allergies have been reported to be caused by protective gloves made of latex: contact dermatitis, urticaria, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, asthma and anaphylactic shock. The frequency rates of immediate allergic reactions to latex among medical personnel are between seven and 10%. Protective gloves made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) rarely cause any immediate allergies. However, due to its carcinogenic properties and for ecological reasons, protective gloves made of PVC are not recommended for use as a substitute for latex gloves. Protective gloves made of synthetic rubbers such as neoprene are recommended instead for use by medical personnel.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Sep.-Oct. 1995, Vol. 43, No.5, p.230. 4 ref.

CIS 95-2162 Meggs W.J.
Multiple chemical sensitivities - Chemical sensitivity as a symptom of airway inflammation
The term "multiple chemical sensitivity" confuses aetiology with diagnosis: chemical sensitivity is a symptom expressed by patients. The symptom complex is also expressed by the majority of patients with asthma or rhinitis following a single acute exposure to a substance, a condition called "reactive upper airway dysfunction syndrome". The chemical sensitivity patient merits evaluation for upper airway and bronchial reactivity that may cause extra-airway symptomatology.
Journal of Toxicology - Clinical Toxicology, 1995, Vol.33, No.2, p.107-110. 29 ref.

CIS 95-2138 Tarvainen K., Jolanki R., Estlander T., Tupasela O., Pfäffli P., Kanerva L.
Immunologic contact urticaria due to airborne methylhexahydrophthalic and methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydrides
Phthalic anhydrides used as hardeners for epoxy resins are known to cause respiratory irritancy and allergy. Skin allergy has on rare occasions been reported. Two workers developed urticaria on uncovered skin after 2 months airborne exposure to methyltetrahydrophthalic anhydride and methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride. Later, the patients also developed conjunctivitis, rhinitis, sore throat or asthma. Both patients' immediate allergy to these anhydrides was proved by different tests. On prick testing, both patients also reacted to phthalic anhydride. The patients had developed airborne contact urticaria, in addition to respiratory allergy, due to phthalic anhydrides.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1995, Vol.32, No.4, p.204-209. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 95-2176 Färm G., Karlberg A.T., Lidén C.
Are opera-house artistes afflicted with contact allergy to colophony and cosmetics?
The frequency of cosmetics intolerance and contact allergy to colophony was investigated among 116 singers and dancers and 16 make-up artists. Individuals were interviewed, examined and patch tested with a standard series and with materials from the opera house. Common skin lesions were found in one third of participants and more than 50% had a history of intolerance to cosmetics. Colophony gave positive patch test reactions in only 3 subjects. The prevalence of positive patch test reactions to fragrance mix and Peru balsam was about the same as among dermatitis patients generally. Contact allergy to colophony did not seem to be a problem regarding cosmetics.
Contact Dermatitis, May 1995, Vol.32, No.5, p.273-280. 30 ref.

CIS 95-1755 Geier J.
Glutaraldehyde - Occupations connected with an allergen
Glutardialdehyd - Berufsspektrum eines Allergens [in German]
Glutaraldehyde is used as a substitute for formaldehyde. It is added for example to cleaning agents and skin creams as a disinfectant. In patch tests with 1% glutaraldehyde in petroleum jelly applied to 2939 patients between November 1989 and July 1993, allergic reactions were observed in 170 cases. Nurses and assistants in doctor's offices were most frequently affected. The next most affected group was charwomen. Measures are needed to protect the groups most severely affected; otherwise an increase in allergic skin diseases cannot be avoided. The measures should include compliance with the exposure limit of 0.2ppm.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Jan.-Feb. 1995, Vol.43, No.1, p.30-31. 14 ref.

CIS 95-1357 Hasselmann A., Kölmel F.
Occupational dermatoses among cleaning personnel
Berufsdermatosen des Reinigungspersonals [in German]
In the years between 1977 and 1992 the Dermatology Department of the University Hospital in Göttingen, Germany, recorded 64 cases of skin disease among cleaning personnel in institutions such as schools, old age homes, recreational centres, hospitals, etc. In 40 cases an allergic contact dermatitis and in 21 cases eczema was diagnosed. In patch tests nickel and formaldehyde were identified as the major allergens. Formaldehyde and other aldehydes were found in the cleaning agents and disinfectants used.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, Mar. 1995, Vol.30, No.3, p.106, 108-112, 117-118, 120. 30 ref.

CIS 95-946 Carvalheiro M.F., Peterson Y., Rubenowitz E., Rylander R.
Bronchial reactivity and work-related symptoms in farmers
Work-related respiratory symptoms and bronchial reactivity were studied in 76 never-smoking farmers and in a control group not exposed to organic dusts. The farmers were divided into those working with vegetables or grain crops, with animals but not swine, and with swine. The extent of symptoms was evaluated with a specific organic dust questionnaire. Bronchial reactivity was assessed with the methacholine challenge test. An increased incidence of organic dust toxic syndrome, mucous membrane irritation (MMI) and chronic bronchitis (CB) was found among farmers working with swine or other animals. Pulmonary function baseline values were normal. Bronchial reactivity was increased and related to subjective symptoms of MMI and CB. There was also a relation between fatigue at work and bronchial reactivity.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 1995, Vol.27, No.1, p.65-74. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 95-1006 Bruze M., Björkner B., Lepoittevin J.P.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from ethyl cyanoacrylate
A case study of an apprentice cobbler with an occupational allergic contact dermatitis from an ethyl cyanoacrylate glue is reported. Initial patch testing with the cyanoacrylate glue dissolved in acetone using the Finn chamber (aluminium) technique yielded false-negative reactions. Positive test reactions were obtained with the same preparations using the Van der Bend chamber (polypropylene) technique. With petrolatum as the vehicle for the glue, there was no difference between the two techniques. The role of aluminium in the false-negative reactions is discussed.
Contact Dermatitis, Mar. 1995, Vol.32, No.3, p.156-159. 10 ref.

CIS 95-1005 Susitaival P., Husman L., Hollmén A., Horsmanheimo M., Husman K., Hannuksela M.
Hand eczema in Finnish farmers. A questionnaire-based clinical study
In a questionnaire survey of 2005 Finnish farmers, 172 (8.6%) reported hand or forearm dermatoses. Skin tests revealed that the majority of the dermatoses were eczema and most were considered to be work-related. Cow allergy was found in 41 farmers. Immediate allergy to cow epithelium was encountered in 28 of these and delayed contact allergy to cow dander was found in 27. Results suggest that in addition to skin prick tests using commercial cow epithelium extract, patch tests using fresh cow dander should also be carried out, and both immediate and delayed responses should be read.
Contact Dermatitis, Mar. 1995, Vol.32, No.3, p.150-155. 29 ref.

CIS 95-1002 Bruze M., Hradil E., Eriksohn I.L., Gruvberger B., Widström L.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from alkanolamineborates in metalworking fluids
Case reports of three workers with contact allergy to alkanolamineborates are presented. Tests revealed two types of reactivity patterns, indicating the existence of at least two separate sensitizers in these substances. Each alkanolamineborate consists of many substances, which differ in part between different alkanolamineborates; the sensitizers in these substances are not known. The study indicates that it is not possible to use just one particular alkanolamineborate for tracing contact allergy to alkanolamineborates in general.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 1995, Vol.32, No.1, p.24-27. 4 ref.

1994

CIS 96-1388 Wrangsjö K., Meding B.
Occupational contact allergy to rubber chemicals - A follow-up study
Of 109 patients in the Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden, who tested positively to rubber chemicals between 1978 and 1987, 94 were followed up 10 years later. In the interview 24% said they were cured, 55% said they had periodic symptoms and 21% said they had continuing symptoms. In clinical examinations of 80 of the patients that were followed up, 35 were found to be free from dermatitis. The majority of patients with occupational rubber allergy were not easily cured. Most of the patients worked in the hospital or laboratory. Workers in the metal industry and in the office were the next most affected groups.
Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Sep.-Oct. 1994, Vol.42, No.5, p.184-189. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 96-807 Baur X., Marek W., Ammon J., Czuppon A.B., Marczynski B., Raulf-Heimsoth M., Roemmelt H., Fruhmann G.
Respiratory and other hazards of isocyanates
Isocyanates have various applications including those in the production of plastics, polyurethane foams and insecticides. Recent results of experimental, immunological and clinical studies of the respiratory diseases caused by isocyanates are summarized. Special consideration is given to findings among 1,780 workers exposed to isocyanates. The case histories and clinical data of 625 of these workers who were exposed during the production of polyurethanes revealed that 247 had respiratory symptoms. The majority of these were diagnosed as suffering from bronchial asthma. Chronic bronchitis, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and allergic alveolitis followed. The risk of developing chronic airway disorders such as bronchial asthma was found to depend on the concentration of isocyanates. Immunoglobulin E-mediated sensitization and irritative effects were identified as the main pathophysiological mechanisms.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1994, Vol.66, No.3, p.141-152. Illus. 131 ref.

CIS 96-627 Zuskin E., Kanceljak B., Mustajbegovic J., Schachter E.N., Kern J.
Respiratory function and immunological reactions in jute workers
The respiratory symptoms and ventilatory capacity of 70 female jute workers in a textile mill in Croatia and of 40 controls were determined in 1970. Of the 70 jute workers, 19 were examined again 19 years later. Although prevalence of chronic cough, phlegm, bronchitis, asthma, dyspnoea, chest tightness and nasal catarrh was higher in the jute workers than in the controls, a statistically significant difference was found only for dyspnoea. Compared with the first study a higher prevalence of all symptoms was found in the follow-up study 19 years later. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and the one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV₁) were significantly reduced in both studies. The reductions were higher in the second study 19 years later. Only one of the 19 jute workers with occupational asthma responded positive to a patch test with jute.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1994, Vol.66, No.1, p.43-48. 23 ref.

CIS 95-2078 De Zotti R., Larese F., Bovenzi M., Negro C., Molinari S.
Allergic airway disease in Italian bakers and pastry makers
A survey was carried out on respiratory symptoms and skin prick test response to common allergens (atopy), storage mites and occupational allergens among 226 bakers and pastry makers from 105 small businesses in northern Italy. Atopy was present in 54 workers (23.4%); 40 workers (17.7%) were skin positive to at least one storage mite, 27 (11.9%) to wheat flour and 17 (7.5%) to α-amylase. Work-related asthma was reported by 11 (4.9%) workers and rhinoconjunctivitis by 31 (17.7%); 22 workers (10.2%) complained of chronic bronchitis. It appears that there is still a significant risk of allergic respiratory disease among bakers. Atopy must be regarded as an important predisposing factor for skin sensitization to occupational allergens and for the onset of symptoms at work. The data confirm that for effective prevention, greater care should be taken not only in limiting environmental exposure, but also in identifying susceptible people.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1994, Vol.51, No.8, p.548-552. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 95-1016 Kanerva L., Estlander T., Jolanki R.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by thiourea compounds
Case reports are presented of five patients with allergic patch test reactions caused by thiourea compounds. Sources of thiourea included diphenylthiourea in neoprene gloves and pesticides, and diethylthiourea in a knee brace. Since allergic contact dermatitis by thiourea compounds can be verified only by patch testing, patients with contact dermatitis who have been exposed to thiourea compounds (such as rubber, PVC plastic or adhesive, diazo paper, paints or glue remover, anticorrosive agents, fungicides or pesticides) should be patch tested with a series of thiourea compounds.
Contact Dermatitis, Oct. 1994, Vol.31, No.4, p.242-248. 48 ref.

CIS 95-1013 Ueda A., Aoyama K., Manda F., Ueda T., Kawahara Y.
Delayed-type allergenicity of triforine (Saprol)
In a study of chrysanthemum growers exposed to triforine (1,4-bis (2,2,2-trichloro-1-formamidoethyl) piperazine), the highest rate of positive patch test reaction was seen to triforine among the seven pesticides and chrysanthemum extracts tested. A higher prevalence of work-related skin symptoms was seen in subjects with a positive patch test reaction to triforine than in those with negative reactions to all allergens tested. The study indicates that delayed-type allergy may be induced among chrysanthemum growers by triforine and other pesticides, as well as by chrysanthemum itself.
Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 1994, Vol.31, No.3, p.140-145. 21 ref.

CIS 95-1011 Lidén C.
Cold-impregnated aluminium. A new source of nickel exposure
A case of work-related allergic contact dermatitis in an engraver with nickel allergy is reported. Investigations revealed that the majority of aluminium sheets he was working with were positive to the dimethylglyoxime test, indicating that nickel was being released. It is concluded that cold-impregnated aluminium is a new source of nickel exposure probably previously unknown to dermatologists.
Contact Dermatitis, July 1994, Vol.31, No.1, p.22-24. 14 ref.

CIS 95-1007 Assini R., Fracchiolla F., Ravalli C., Nava C.
Allergic disease due to pesticides - Three case reports
Allergopatie da pesticidi - Descrizione di tre casi [in Italian]
Most studies of pesticides have focussed on their acute or chronic toxicity. However, at present exposure levels severe intoxication is rare and it is appropriate to look more closely at their sensitizing power. Three cases are reported - one case of urticaria/angio-oedema, one of asthma and one of oculorhinitis. Only one subject was atopic. The substances to which sensitization was found were Cynoxamil, Mancozeb, Tiofanate, Seccatutto for the first case, Paraquat for the second and Dodine for the third. The need to extend allergological tests to pesticides also when workers show clinical signs with suspected immunological pathogenesis is highlighted. Furthermore, in order to reduce the number of new cases of pesticide allergy, closer monitoring of subjects exposed to low doses is also proposed.
Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1994, Vol.85, No.4, p.321-326. 11 ref.

CIS 95-997 Wendling J.M., Dietemann A., Oster J.P., Pauli G.
Occupational allergy to ethylene oxide: A case study
Allergie professionnelle à l'oxyde d'éthylène - A propos d'une observation [in French]
An isolated case of allergy to ethylene oxide in a midwife, without allergy to latex and confirmed by skin tests and provocation tests, is reported. The difficulties to confirm the diagnosis and the interpretation of the provocation tests are discussed.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.4, p.287-289. 15 ref.

CIS 95-994 Legrele A.M., Deschamps F., Lavaud F.
Occupational respiratory allergy to washing powder enzymes - Seven new cases
Allergie respiratoire professionnelle aux enzymes de lessives - 7 nouveaux cas [in French]
Seven new cases of occupational respiratory allergy to washing powder enzymes occurred in a manufacturing department of a firm. The first symptoms were rhinitis, cough and disabling dyspnoea for most of the affected workers. Medical examinations and chest X-rays showed no anomalies but bronchial hyperreactivity was observed in 3 out of 5 workers. RAST tests and prick-tests with washing powder enzymes present in the enterprise were positive for six of the seven workers. A deterioration of the coating of the grains of the washing powder during their progress on the conveyor belt caused the discharge of the active enzyme constituent. After the manufacturing of the washing powder ceased, all respiratory symptoms disappeared.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.3, p.197-201. 19 ref.

CIS 95-460
Health and Safety Executive
A matter of life and breath
Videotape on the debilitating effects of occupational asthma, and how long-term lung damage can be prevented in sensitized workers.
CFL Vision, P.O. Box 35, Wetherby LS23 7EX, United Kingdom, 1994. Videotape. Length: 14min. Price: GBP 11.49 (hire), GBP 42.13 (sale). ###

CIS 95-749 Patussi V., Mazzucato S., Lorusso A., Collareta A., Chermaz E., Buttazzi P., Fiorito A.
Storage mites and their role in the onset of asthma and oculorhinitis among cattle farmers in North-East Italy
Epidemiological study of 149 cattle farmers and 148 controls. A significantly larger degree of sensitization to storage mites was found among the cattle farmers than among the controls, well correlated with the mite species identified in the barns in which the farmers worked. However, there was also frequent co-sensitization to the mite Dermatophagoides, a mite normally found in mattresses (and not in barns).
Medicina del lavoro, Sep.-Oct. 1994, Vol.85, No.5, p.402-411. Illus. 27 ref.

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