Sulphanilic acid: divergent results in the guinea pig maximization test and the local lymph node assay

The guinea pig maximization test (GPMT) has proven to be a valuable tool for the identification of the skin sensitization potential of chemicals. The method identifies a hazard which can lead in the EC to compulsory labelling of that chemical. In the present study, data on sulphanilic acid derived from the GPMT has been compared with results from a second guinea pig assay (the cumulative contact enhancement test) and the murine local lymph node assay, both of which require only topical application of chemical. Except for the GPMT, no test identified any sensitizing activity associated with exposure to sulphanilic acid. These latter results are consistent with the experience gained from substantial human exposure in an occupational setting and from which no cases of allergic contact dermatitis to sulphanilic acid have arisen over a 20-year period. In consequence, it is questioned which test protocol in practice has given the more accurate identification of sensitization hazard relevant to man.     

Occupational irritant contact dermatitis and fungal infection in construction workers

We have examined 6 construction workers who developed chronic skin diseases on their hands over a period of 15 years (1970–1985). 4 developed a Trichophyton rubrum infection, and the other 2 an irritant contact dermatitis. All of them carried out jobs which caused traumatization of the skin, due to the presence of ethylene glycol and mineral oils during operation of pneumatic hammers in winter. They also suffered other types of skin trauma during their work. Construction workers may be at risk of developing an occupational skin disease involving fungal infection.     

Dermatitis from hexavalent chromate in the accelerator of an epoxy sealant (PR1422) used in the aircraft industry

4 aircraft construction workers developed allergic contact dermatitis of the hands and forearms. The allergen was hexavalent chromate in the accelerating solution of an epoxy-based sealant (PR1422). Although chromate dermatitis from an epoxy resin has been described, epoxy system accelerators are a hitherto unrecognized source of occupational chromate dermatitis.     

The usefulness of detailed information to patients with contact allergy

To find out if patients with contact allergy are helped by computerized information lists, a retrospective study was carried out on 58 patients with contact allergy to lanolin, traced through our local database DALUK. All were sent a questionnaire about their usage of the information list, clearance of their eczema, their education and other details. Clearance of the patient's eczema was found to correlate with use of the information list. It was also found that the effectiveness of the information depended on factors such as education, family circumstances, ethnic background and, most of all, how and where the information list was used.