Absence of platinum salt sensitivity in autocatalyst workers exposed to tetraamine platinum dichloride

Background Platinum salt sensitivity (PSS) is well recognizedfollowing occupational exposure to platinum salts, though specificplatinum compounds have been suggested to be non-allergenic.We report on a cohort of autocatalyst workers exposed to tetraamineplatinum dichloride (TPC) and other platinum-group elements. Methods All subjects employed at an autocatalyst productionplant undertook medical surveillance with symptoms, examinationfindings and results of skin prick testing and spirometry prospectivelyrecorded. Environmental testing of the workplace was also performedto determine the level of exposure. Results Twenty-six subjects had a mean duration of employmentof 46 (±30) months and undertook a mean 6.8 (±4.3)examinations. No subjects described the development of new respiratoryor dermatological symptoms. No patients developed positive skinreactivity to platinum salts. FEV₁ remained unchanged for allsubjects over the course of the study period. Conclusions TPC and platinum-group elements are not associatedwith the development of PSS or occupational asthma. Identificationof chemical compounds is important when advising on occupationalhealth screening. TPC and/or platinum-group elements shouldbe used in preference to chloroplatinic acid in catalyst productionto minimize the impact of occupational illness due to PSS.