rosin and Dermatitis--Allergic-Contact

Contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis are frequent conditions in the general population.. To provide an updated estimate of the prevalence of contact allergy in the general population based on data from our previous review combined with new data from an updated search for relevant studies published between 2007 and 2017.. Two authors independently searched PubMed for studies reporting on the prevalence of contact allergy in samples of the general population. Proportion meta-analyses were performed to calculate the pooled prevalence estimates of contact allergy.. A total of 28 studies were included in the analysis, covering 20 107 patch tested individuals from the general population. Overall, the pooled prevalence of contact allergy was 20.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.8%-23.7%). In children and adolescents (<18 years), the prevalence was 16.5% (95%CI: 13.6%-19.7%). The prevalence was significantly higher in women (27.9% [95%CI: 21.7%-34.5%]) than in men (13.2% [95%CI: 9.3%-17.6%]). The most common allergen was nickel (11.4% [95%CI: 9.4%-13.5%]), followed by fragrance mix I (3.5% [95%CI: 2.1%-5.4%]), cobalt (2.7% [95%CI: 2.1%-3.4%]), Myroxylon pereirae (1.8% [95%CI: 1.0%-2.7%]), chromium (1.8% [95%CI: 1.3%-2.6%]), p-phenylenediamine (1.5% [95%CI: 1.0%-2.1%]), methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (1.5% [95%CI: 0.8%-2.5%]), and colophonium (1.3% [95%CI: 1.0%-1.6%]).. This meta-analysis confirmed that at least 20% of the general population are contact-allergic to common environmental allergens. It highlights the need for more effective preventive strategies for common allergens in consumer goods, cosmetics, and the workplace.

Topics: Age Distribution; Anti-Infective Agents; Chromium; Cobalt; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Metals; Myroxylon; Nickel; Perfume; Phenylenediamines; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Sex Distribution; Thiazoles

This study concerns a 69-year-old female patient with a longstanding history of venous ulcerations on both lower legs and multiple sensitivities, who developed eczematous lesions with the hydrocolloid dressing Combiderm (Convatec Ltd., a Bristol-Myers Squibb division, Ickenham, Middlesex, UK). Epicutaneous tests were positive to this dressing and to a modified colophonium derivative, i.e. glyceryl rosinate, however not to the unmodified colophonium from the standard series. A review of the literature showed several case reports about sensitization to similar hydrocolloids being distributed under various brand names in different countries and which contain the pentaerythritol ester of the hydrogenated rosin as the tackifying agent. Some of the patients described did, while others did not, react to colophonium but only to a modified derivative. In our patient, the reaction to glyceryl rosinate most probably represent cross-sensitivity with the modified colophonium derivative used in Combiderm, the presence (but not the exact nature) of which was showed by the company. In patients where allergic contact dermatitis from hydrocolloid dressings is strongly suspected and colophonium tests negatively, patch testing to modified colophonium derivatives should therefore be performed. As the complete composition of wound dressings is most often unknown, we urgently advocate legal requirements for labelling of those and in fact all medically used devices.

Topics: Aged; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Leg Ulcer; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

The clinical relevance of patch test reactions is often difficult to determine. Use tests have been developed to further evaluate the significance of patch test results. We review studies that have defined correlations between the threshold concentrations at patch testing and the outcome of use tests for particular chemical allergens. Results of patch testing with serial dilutions of colophony, cinnamic aldehyde, and isoeugenol have shown concordance with the outcome of use tests. On the other hand, poor correlations between patch test reactivity and the use test were demonstrated in another study on isoeugenol and on studies on hydroxycitronellal, formaldehyde and chromium. These studies shed light on some factors that may influence the outcome of use tests. Individual factors such as patch test sensitivity, regional variations in reactivity and percutaneous penetration appear to play significant roles. Exposure dose, length of time of exposure, and other factors yet to be determined also affect degree of reactivity. Because patients with low thresholds in serial dilution patch testing are known to react to lower concentrations of products at use testing, results of these studies may be used to help identify subjects with a high risk of developing clinical disease. From the public health standpoint, data obtained may be used as a guide in limiting exposure concentrations in consumer products.

Topics: Acrolein; Chromium; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Immunologic; Eugenol; Formaldehyde; Humans; Maximum Allowable Concentration; Patch Tests; Reproducibility of Results; Resins, Plant; Sensitivity and Specificity; Terpenes; Time Factors

In order to define a standard diagnostic protocol for managing allergic dis-eases in musicians, we conducted a literature search on this topic. The most frequent allergic disease in this special category of workers was contact dermatitis, always described in stringed and wind instruments players, involving the mouth and the hands. No other allergic disease directly related to musical instruments was reported. The most frequently reported culprit substances were: colophony, exotic woods, nickel sulphate, varnishes, and propolis (bee glue). Thus, being contact dermatitis the most frequent disease, a correct diagnostic approach to this problem in musicians should involve, in addition to clinical history and examination, the patch test with a specific panel of substances. Finally, allergy in musicians involves additional problems: the virtual impossibility to avoid the offending substance, and the poor adherence to therapy due to lifestyle. In general, this specific allergologic problem seems to be underestimated, underdiagnosed and, as a conquence, poorly managed.

Topics: Callosities; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Lip Diseases; Music; Nickel; Occupational Diseases; Paint; Pigmentation Disorders; Propolis; Resins, Plant; Skin Diseases; Wood

In contradistinction from certain strains of mice, contact allergy in man is hypothesized to be either lifelong or at least to last for years. We examined follow-up studies on contact allergy, as evaluated by patch testing, attempting to quantify its natural history. The allergens include colophonium, gold sodium thiosulfate, nickel, and cobalt. At present, due to technical limitations, we cannot state in quantitative terms whether contact allergy in man is lifelong and whether its clinical manifestations change. Thus, we list some criteria for future studies which may help resolve the above question.

Topics: Antirheumatic Agents; Cobalt; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Follow-Up Studies; Gold Sodium Thiosulfate; Humans; Nickel; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Regulatory classification of substances in the European Union (EU) is intended to identify their hazardous toxicological properties in a formal and harmonized manner. In the regulatory work, a specific chemical with its molecular structure is classified as a skin sensitizer. This implies that the compound is stable throughout its lifetime. The purpose of the present paper is to discuss the problem of skin sensitizing oxidation/degradation products formed by air exposure of various materials or substances with very low allergenic activity. In regulatory classification work on skin sensitizers, the intrinsic suspectibility of a chemical to air oxidation (autoxidation) should be taken into consideration. We give examples of natural terpenoid materials, but the concept of allergens formed by air oxidation can apply to other materials widely used in industrial products. If a positive classification is made for a substance with a known chemical structure, a note should indicate that the primary chemical structure of the notified substance is not a skin sensitizer, but that (some of) its oxidation products are. Complex mixtures which inevitably contain sensitizing oxidation products should (on the basis of sufficient evidence) be classified as skin sensitizing.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Cyclohexenes; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; European Union; Guidelines as Topic; Humans; Limonene; Oxidation-Reduction; Resins, Plant; Skin; Stereoisomerism; Terpenes

Colophony is a complex mixture of over 100 compounds derived from pine trees. It has countless applications at home and at work and exposure to colophony and modified-colophony is universal. It is the oxidation products of unmodified and modified colophony and some of the new resin acids synthesized during modification that are the principle allergens in colophony. The neutral fraction may account for a small % of positive reactions. When screening for allergy using unmodified gum rosin, allergy to modified rosin will not be revealed. When patients react to both materials, it is probably due to unmodified colophony present in both, rather than a cross-reaction. Relevant positive reactions may be missed if only colophony 20% pet is relied upon as the screening material.

Topics: Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars

Topics: Administration, Topical; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; Humans; Incidence; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Singapore; Tars

Topics: Allergens; Chemistry Techniques, Analytical; Chromatography; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Sick Building Syndrome

A patient with recurrent face and eyelid eczema after establishing an eco-friendly refill business, she was selling bees wax wraps as part of her business. This case raises awareness of bees wax wraps being a new potential eco-friendly source of colophonium allergic contact dermatitis.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Bees; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Eczema; Exanthema; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant

Medical adhesive tapes are commonly recommended for the prevention of friction blisters during hiking and military marches. The aim of this paper is to report on the results of investigations into an outbreak of tape-related foot dermatitis in 26 military conscripts following continuous use of medical adhesive tapes for several days during a field exercise. Patch tests were performed using baseline series and aimed testing was performed with colophonium-related substances and different medical adhesive tapes. Contact allergy to the adhesive tapes used was found in 20 (77%) subjects, and contact allergy to colophonium in 16 (61%). Chemical analysis detected colophonium-related substances in the culprit tapes. Compared with consecutive dermatitis patients investigated at our Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology in the previous 10 years, conscripts with colophonium allergy had increased odds ratios for concomitant contact allergy to phenol formaldehyde resins and fragrance substances including hydroperoxides of limonene and linalool. The results show that prolonged use of medical adhesive tapes on intact skin carries a high risk for allergic contact dermatitis. Prior to their introduction on the market, medical devices should be assessed for possible side-effects.

Topics: Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Military Personnel; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Besides being a potential component of (some species of) colophonium, D-limonene is also used as a tackifier in the production of adhesives. Hydroperoxides of limonene are well-known skin sensitizers.. To show that D-limonene may be present in colophonium-containing but also colophonium-free ("hypoallergenic") adhesives, and that patients suffering from allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from both types of adhesives might display positive patch test reactions to limonene hydroperoxides in this regard.. Five patients with suspected ACD from adhesives were patch tested to the baseline series (containing limonene hydroperoxides 0.3 and 0.2% pet.), additional series and, if available, to the culprit adhesives. The adhesives labelled as containing colophonium (n = 3) or free from it (n = 2) were analysed with gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for the presence of D-limonene.. All five patients sensitised to adhesives had (strong) positive patch test reactions to limonene hydroperoxides. The presence of D-limonene, and/or related components, could be demonstrated in all three colophonium-containing and, surprisingly, also in two colophonium-free ("hypoallergenic") tapes.. D-limonene may be present in both regular and "hypoallergenic" adhesives, with limonene hydroperoxides potentially contributing to ACD from such medical devices. The use of fragrance chemicals in adhesives deserves further research.

Topics: Adhesives; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Limonene; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies; Surgical Tape; Young Adult

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Acrylates; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Camphanes; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Glucose; Humans; Patch Tests

The number of patients with contact dermatitis from glucose sensors and insulin infusion sets is increasing. Patch testing is challenging because of a lack of information concerning the constituent materials of medical devices.. To report on products and causes of allergic reactions to glucose sensors or insulin infusion sets over a 5-year period and suggest a short screening series.. Analysis of patch test data from consecutive patients suspected of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to glucose sensors and/or insulin infusion sets from 2015-2019.. Patient numbers increased from 4 to 15 per year; 30/38 (78.9%) were children. In 29 (76.3%), a diagnosis of allergic/probable ACD was established, mostly due to the tapes of the device or allergens in these tapes (n = 23) followed by allergens in the device housing (n = 10). Isobornyl acrylate, abitol, and colophonium were the most common allergens. Information from manufacturers was often difficult to obtain and, if accessible, inadequate. For this reason, the diagnosis was delayed for more than 1.5 years in 12 (31%) patients.. The increasing number of patients, mostly children, with ACD from devices used in treatment of type 1 diabetes demonstrates the importance of this problem. Allergies can easily be overlooked, due to the lack of mandatory labeling of the constituent materials of the devices.

Topics: Abietanes; Acrylates; Adolescent; Adult; Allergens; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Camphanes; Child; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Female; Humans; Insulin Infusion Systems; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies; Surgical Tape; Young Adult

Topics: Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Adult; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Hair Removal; Humans; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adhesives; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Child; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Female; Humans; Menarche; Menstrual Hygiene Products; Resins, Plant; Vulvar Diseases

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant

Contact dermatitis is a frequent skin disorder related to environmental and occupational etiological factors, which could potentially affect all age groups, as well as both genders. The current study is aimed at exploring the patterns of contact sensitization with respect to the population's occupational patterns in Greece. A retrospective analysis was performed in a cohort of 1978 patients from 2014 to 2016. Patients were divided into two categories; blue collars (BlC) and white collars (WhC), as well as detailed occupation was considered. Separation was performed on the basis of their profession, i.e., labor workers and handicraftsmen were sorted to the BlC group, while office employees were sorted to the WhC group. The common allergen in all occupational subgroups was nickel sulphate. The three most prevalent allergens in both BlC and WhC were nickel sulphate 5%, fragrance mix (I) 8%, and Balsam of Peru 25%. WhC males were uniquely sensitized to colophony 20% and formaldehyde 2%, and WhC females were uniquely sensitized to 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (CMIT) and neomycin sulphate 20%. Sensitization to allergens manifested occupation-specific patterns. Allergic contact dermatitis surveillance is of great importance towards the clinical and systematic understanding of the disease, especially with respect to the patient's occupational profile.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Balsams; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Greece; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nickel; Prevalence; Referral and Consultation; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors

Colophonium (rosin) can cause allergic contact dermatitis, mainly due to autoxidation of abietic acid (AbA). Products containing ≥0.1% colophonium should be labeled with EUH208 - "Contains rosin; colophony. May produce an allergic reaction." How should this be measured?. To compare the results from different strategies for estimating colophonium levels in consumer products: (a) from AbA, and (b) the sum of all major resin acids. To investigate the ratio of 7-oxodehydroabietic acid (7-O-DeA)/AbA as indication of autoxidation.. Resin acids were extracted from consumer products, derivatized, and then separated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).. Resin acids were detected in 9 of 15 products. No product contained colophonium ≥0.1%. Estimation based on AbA resulted in underestimation of the colophonium levels in four of nine products. For three products, the obtained levels from this strategy were only one of two compared to when estimating from the sum of all resin acids. The ratio 7-O-DeA/AbA varied from 74% to 1.4%.. We propose to measure colophonium based on the sum of all detectable major resin acids, including 7-O-DeA. The ratio of 7-O-DeA/AbA should be used as a marker of autoxidation, indicating an increased risk of sensitization. The presented analytical method is simple to use and suitable for further screening studies.

Topics: Consumer Product Safety; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Household Products; Humans; Product Labeling; Resins, Plant

In the past few years, the increasing use of devices for diabetes treatment, such as continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps, flash glucose monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring systems, sensor-augmented pumps, and automated insulin delivery devices, has resulted in important improvements in disease management. Meanwhile, the longer a patient uses a device, the greater the likelihood of developing a skin reaction. Allergic contact dermatitis is the most frequently described skin side effect caused by adhesive tapes contained in the insulin infusion sets or glucose sensor sets and used to connect these devices to the body. We describe 18 patients, followed up at our Pediatric Diabetes Centre, who experienced dermatological complications due to diabetes device use from January 2018 to December 2018. All the patients were patch tested with allergens from a "standard" series and from a "plastics and glues" series. Patch tests resulted positive in 66.7% of patients. Colophonium was the most frequently isolated sensitizing allergen (41.1% of cases). It is a complex mixture of

Topics: Adhesives; Adolescent; Child; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Female; Humans; Italy; Male; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies; Wearable Electronic Devices

Topics: Abietanes; Adolescent; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Cross Reactions; Cupressus; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Humans; Indonesia; Male; Middle Aged; Paraffin; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Textile Industry; Young Adult

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Humans; Music; Nickel; Patch Tests; Recurrence; Resins, Plant; Young Adult

Topics: Acrylates; Adhesives; Adult; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Camphanes; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Insulin Infusion Systems; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adrenal Cortex Hormones; COVID-19; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Myroxylon; Pandemics; Patch Tests; Photography; Remote Consultation; Resins, Plant

Colophonium is a common contact allergen that is present not only in household products but also in occupational settings.. To describe the sources of occupational exposure to colophonium and the occupations at risk of colophonium allergy.. We reviewed patch test files from the years 2002 to 2017 at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health for patients with allergic reactions to colophonium and abietic acid. We analysed the patch test, occupation and exposure data of 39 patients diagnosed with occupational allergic contact dermatitis (OACD) caused by colophonium.. Of the patients examined for suspected occupational dermatitis, 4.6% (n = 118) reacted positively to colophonium. The majority of the OACD patients worked in the wood industry, as machinists, or were involved in soldering or agriculture. The most common occupational sources of exposure were coniferous wood and wood-derived materials, followed by glues, metalworking fluids, and soldering materials. Colophonium is not always mentioned in safety data sheets (SDSs), and the sources of colophonium exposure are often materials for which there are no SDSs.. OACD caused by colophonium is quite common and occurs in a variety of occupations. SDSs provide poor information for exposure assessment. Patch testing with the patient's own materials was often useful in establishing the diagnosis.

Topics: Abietanes; Adhesives; Adult; Agriculture; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Finland; Humans; Male; Metallurgy; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tracheophyta; Wood; Young Adult

Topics: Adult; Antibodies, Monoclonal; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatologic Agents; Female; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Abdomen; Abietanes; Arm; Dancing; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Leg Dermatoses; Neck; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Young Adult

Topics: Abietanes; Adhesives; Adolescent; Aged, 80 and over; Bandages; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Equipment Safety; Female; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of contact sensitization to selected cosmetic allergens, i.e. ingredients of dental materials, in students of dental medicine and dental patients.. A total of 50 participants were included in the study: 40 students of dental medicine exposed to the studied allergens during the course of practical education; and 10 randomly selected dental patients without occupational exposure to the investigated substances served as a control group. All of them were patch-tested with colophonium, myroxylon pereirae resin, paraben mix, fragrance mix I, isopropyl myristate, triclosan, polysorbate 80, compositae mix II, and hydroperoxides of limonene.. The sensitization rates for colophonium and polysorbate 80 were the highest. For the group of dental students, we established significantly higher sensitization rate for colophonium compared to the ones for myroxylon pereirae resin and hydroperoxides of limonene (χ. Colophonium and polysorbate 80 could be outlined as sensitizers of paramount importance for both dental students and dental patients. We consider the major importance of exposure to colophonium during the course of practical education in dentistry for the onset of the sensitization. Sensitization to compositae mix was observed only among dental students. We consider the leading role of consumer exposure for the onset of the sensitization to triclosan and to hydroperoxides of limonene. Unexpected and unreported reactions of concomitant sensitization were observed.

Topics: Adult; Case-Control Studies; Dental Materials; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Perfume; Pilot Projects; Polysorbates; Resins, Plant; Students, Dental; Young Adult

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by glucose sensors has become an increasing problem. Contact allergies to isobornyl acrylate, colophonium, ethyl cyanoacrylate and N,N-dimethylacrylamide have been reported. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the prevalence of sensor-related dermatitis and detailed patient histories.. To evaluate diabetes patients who have developed allergic contact dermatitis caused by glucose sensors.. Seventy patients with suspected contact allergy to glucose sensors referred to university hospital dermatology clinics in southern Finland were patch tested with the baseline series, an isobornyl acrylate dilution series, and a number of other acrylates. Atopic constitution, contact allergies, the severity of the dermatitis and the ability to continue with the same or another type of sensor were recorded.. Positive patch test reactions to isobornyl acrylate were seen in 51 of 63 (81%) Freestyle Libre users. Colophonium or its derivatives gave positive reactions in five of seven Medtronic Enlite users. The median duration of sensor use before dermatitis was 6 months. The estimated prevalences of contact allergy to sensor adhesives were 0.7% for Freestyle Libre and 0.8% for Enlite.. We suggest that patients who have difficulties in finding a tolerable glucose sensor or an insulin pump should be patch tested.

Topics: Acrylates; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Camphanes; Child; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Disposable Equipment; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Young Adult

Tree moss (Pseudevernia furfuracea [L.] Zopf.), a lichen growing on conifers, is a frequent fragrance sensitizer. Previous studies have shown two subgroups of tree moss-allergic patients: a group sensitized to common allergens of tree and oak moss (Evernia prunastri), and another group sensitized to colophonium-derived allergens, which may contaminate tree moss extract.. To report the results of including tree moss extract in the baseline series and discuss the clinical implications.. Tree moss extract was included in the baseline series and sensitized patients were assessed for concomitant allergy to colophonium and oak moss, and the relevance of these reactions was analyzed.. Altogether, 22 of 632 patients (3.5%) had positive reactions to tree moss. Eight patients were sensitized to tree moss only (among fragrance allergens) and 75% had relevant reactions to colophonium. Fourteen patients were sensitized to other fragrance allergens as well and 28.5% had relevant colophonium reactions.. The prevalence of positive tree moss reactions is high enough to justify its inclusion in the baseline series. If tree moss is not included, patients with positive colophonium reactions should be informed of possible (false) cross-reactivity to tree moss to avoid this labeled fragrance allergen.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Allergens; Ascomycota; Child; Cross Reactions; Denmark; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Odorants; Patch Tests; Plant Extracts; Resins, Plant; Young Adult

The FreeStyle Libre glucose sensor has caused many cases of allergic contact dermatitis, and isobornyl acrylate (IBOA) in this sensor has been identified as one of the culprit allergens.. To report on the presence of IBOA in devices produced by Medtronic, namely, the Enlite sensor and the insulin infusion set Paradigm MiniMed Quick-set.. Five patients reacting to the glucose sensor Enlite and/or the insulin infusion set Paradigm MiniMed Quick-set observed in three clinics (two Belgian and one Swedish) were patch tested with the baseline and other series, as well as with IBOA; four of them also with pieces of adhesive patches from the devices, and two with a thin layer chromatogram of Enlite glucose sensor extracts. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses were performed.. Four patients reacted to IBOA and one to colophonium, a known allergen in Enlite, and three to the adhesive part of the sensor or the insulin infusion set. IBOA was identified in the sensor by GC-MS, and its presence was indicated in the infusion set.. IBOA is a contact allergen in Enlite glucose sensor, and likely also in the infusion set. Therefore, these devices are not suitable alternatives for patients sensitized to the FreeStyle Libre sensor.

Topics: Acrylates; Adhesives; Adolescent; Adult; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Camphanes; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Home Infusion Therapy; Humans; Infusion Pumps; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adhesives; Child; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Female; Humans; Insulin Infusion Systems; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Ankle; Bandages; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Leg Dermatoses; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Soccer

Colophonium is a natural substance derived from Pineaceae trees. It is used in a wide range of consumer and occupational products because of its tackiness, and is a known sensitizer.. To analyse the temporal trend of contact allergy to colophonium in north-eastern Italy, and to evaluate the associations with occupations in our geographical area.. From 1996 to 2016, 27 381 patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis were patch tested in north-eastern Italy. Individual characteristics were documented by use of a standardized questionnaire in 6 departments of dermatology or occupational medicine.. The overall prevalence of colophonium sensitization was 1.67%; the prevalence was significantly higher in women (1.75%) than in men (1.49%). No significant differences among departments were observed. We found significant associations between colophonium sensitization and being a student (odds ratio [OR] 4.64; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-20.6), being a farmer or fishermen (OR 3.63; 95%CI: 1.21-10.84), being a housekeeper (OR 2.02; 95%CI: 1.08-3.77), and being retired (OR 2.06; 95%CI: 1.08-3.92).. Our study showed that contact allergy to colophonium is still relevant in north-eastern Italy. The frequency of sensitization has dropped significantly over a period of 10 years, but students and farmers/fishermen still have sensitization prevalences above 3.5%. Our results are in line with European data.

Topics: Adult; Age Distribution; Aged; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Humans; Italy; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Pinus; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Sex Distribution

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Holidays; Humans; Patch Tests; Picea; Resins, Plant

Patients with lower leg dermatitis, chronic venous insufficiency or chronic leg ulcers have a high prevalence of contact sensitization.. To identify the current spectrum of contact allergens in these patients.. Data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology on 5264 patients with the above diagnoses from the years 2003 to 2014 (study group) were compared with data on 4881 corresponding patients from 1994 to 2003 (historical control group) and with a current control group without these diagnoses (n = 55 510).. Allergic contact dermatitis was diagnosed less frequently in the study group than in the historical control group (25.9% versus 16.9%; p < 0.001), and contact sensitization to most allergens had declined. The allergen spectrum, however, was largely unchanged. Important allergens are Myroxylon pereirae (balsam of Peru) (14.8% positive reactions), fragrance mix I (11.4%), lanolin alcohol (7.8%), colophonium (6.6%), neomycin sulfate (5.0%), cetearyl alcohol (4.4%), oil of turpentine (3.1%), and paraben mix (2.6%). Patch testing with additional series showed sensitization to Amerchol L-101 (9.7%), tert-butyl hydroquinone (8.7%), framycetin sulfate (5.0%), and gentamicin sulfate (3.1%).. Topical preparations for treating the above-mentioned conditions should not contain fragrances, Myroxylon pereirae, and colophonium. The special allergen spectrum has to be considered in patch testing.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Allergens; Balsams; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatology; Eczema; Female; Humans; Lanolin; Leg Dermatoses; Leg Ulcer; Male; Middle Aged; Myroxylon; Patch Tests; Perfume; Resins, Plant

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Europe; Humans; Perfume; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Allergens; Anus Diseases; Child; Child, Preschool; Cohort Studies; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nickel; Patch Tests; Perfume; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; Pruritus Ani; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies; Young Adult

Occupational contact dermatitis is common in healthcare workers. Although irritant contact dermatitis resulting from wet work is the most frequently reported cause, healthcare workers also constitute high-risk group for the development of allergic contact dermatitis and contact urticaria.. To evaluate the prevalence of delayed-type and immediate-type hypersensitivity in 120 healthcare workers with hand eczema.. One hundred and twenty healthcare workers from three major hospitals in Denmark with self-reported hand eczema within the last year participated in the study. Patch tests included baseline series plus selected allergens, and prick tests included standard inhalational allergens plus natural rubber latex and chlorhexidine. Levels of IgE specific for latex, chlorhexidine and ethylene oxide were measured.. Of the participants, 53% had positive patch test reactions. The most frequent positive patch test reactions were to nickel, thiomersal, fragrances, rubber chemicals, and colophonium. The prevalence of natural rubber latex allergy as diagnosed by prick testing was 2.5%, and chlorhexidine allergy (both contact allergy and IgE-mediated allergy) was found in <1%. Ethylene oxide allergy was not identified in any of the participants.. Our results confirm previous reports on contact allergy patterns in healthcare workers. Testing for natural rubber latex allergy is still important, but increased risks of chlorhexidine and ethylene oxide allergy could not be confirmed.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Allergens; Chlorhexidine; Denmark; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Disinfectants; Eczema; Ethylene Oxide; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Health Personnel; Humans; Hypersensitivity, Delayed; Hypersensitivity, Immediate; Latex Hypersensitivity; Male; Middle Aged; Nickel; Patch Tests; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Skin Tests; Thimerosal

Topics: Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Young Adult

Topics: Adhesives; Adolescent; Athletic Tape; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant; Skin Diseases, Vesiculobullous

Topics: Adhesives; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Electrocardiography; Electrodes; Female; Humans; Infant; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Christmas tree hypersensitivity is a rare condition, which has so far obtained scarce attention in the medical literature. We present two clinical cases of hypersensitivity associated with Christmas tree exposure, a 51-year-old woman with allergic contact dermatitis and a 41-year-old man with allergic rhinitis. The female patient had a positive patch test reaction to colophony, and the male patient had a positive skin prick test reaction to alternaria mould. Both were successfully advised to avoid prolonged exposure to Christmas trees and buy artificial trees for Christmas.

Topics: Adult; Alternaria; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Picea; Resins, Plant; Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Perfume; Resins, Plant

Tako-no-Suidashi ointment (TSO) is an old Japanese over-the-counter drug, used for the drainage of infectious pustular disease, such as furuncles, carbuncles and infectious atheroma, although whether it works well or not is unknown. The ingredients of the TSO compound commonly include rapeseed oil, gum rosin, wood rosin, Japanese wax, paraffin, petrolatum, copper sulfate, Peru balsam, acetic acid, salicylic acid and trace amounts of Guinea green B. We report a case of contact dermatitis in a 38-year-old Japanese woman caused by TSO. The patient presented to our hospital with pruritic erythema on her left cheek. In order to remove a subcutaneous tumor, she had applied TSO 4 days prior to presentation. Clinical examination showed a well-demarcated exudative erythematous macule with yellowish crusts and scales on her left cheek. Patch testing showed a positive reaction to TSO (++), gum rosin (++) and wood rosin (++) at 72 h. As TSO includes highly allergenic material, caution should be made in applying this topical therapy.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Japan; Medicine, East Asian Traditional; Ointments; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Wood

Contact allergy to phenol-formaldehyde resins (PFRs) based on phenol and formaldehyde is not detected by a p-tertiary-butylphenol-formaldehyde resin (PTBP-FR) included in most baseline patch test series.. To investigate the rate of contact allergy to PFR-2 (a mixture of monomers and dimers from a resol resin based on phenol and formaldehyde) in a Swedish population, and to investigate associated simultaneous allergic reactions.. Five centres representing the Swedish Contact Dermatitis Research Group included PFR-2 in their patch test baseline series for a period of 1.5 years.. Of 2504 patients tested, 27 (1.1%) reacted to PFR-2. Of those 27 individuals, 2 had a positive reaction to formaldehyde and 2 to PTBP-FR. Simultaneous allergic reactions were noted to colophonium in 6, to Myroxylon pereirae in 14, and to fragrance mix I in 15.. The contact allergy frequency in the tested population (1.1%) merits its inclusion in the Swedish baseline series and possibly also in other baseline series. Simultaneous allergic reactions were noted to colophonium, M. pereirae, and fragrance mix I.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Allergens; Child; Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Formaldehyde; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Myroxylon; Patch Tests; Perfume; Phenols; Polymers; Resins, Plant; Sweden

Topics: Adult; Brazil; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant

Patch testing is performed to evaluate suspected allergic contact dermatitis. Common wisdom suggests that various allergens cross-react but only a few larger studies have published confirmations of this. The purpose of our study was to identify significant correlations between positive test reactions in a screening series.. A total of 1235 patients undergoing patch testing to the Hermal standard series at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Contact Dermatitis Clinic between 1990 and 2006 were investigated.. Two or more positive reactions were seen in 411 patients (33.3%). Sensitizations to eight pairs of allergens were found to have significant correlation (P

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Balsams; Cobalt; Cross Reactions; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Formaldehyde; Humans; Male; Methenamine; Middle Aged; Nickel; Patch Tests; Perfume; Potassium Dichromate; Resins, Plant; Urea

Topics: Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Male; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adhesives; Adult; Clothing; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Neoprene; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Resins, Synthetic

The diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis due to colophony may be challenging as this allergen is found in a number of products and used in a variety of settings. Diagnosis becomes more difficult when the distribution of dermatitis does not coincide with typical patterns of use of the allergen. We present a case of transfer contact dermatitis of the face due to rosin use in bowling.

Topics: Aged, 80 and over; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant

Topics: Allergens; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Clothing; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Foot Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Portugal; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adolescent; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Bandages; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Photoallergic; Humans; Ketoprofen; Male; Menthol; Resins, Plant

Topics: Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Electrocardiography, Ambulatory; Electrodes; Female; Humans; Infant; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Sudden Infant Death; Thorax

Considering the widespread use of colophony-containing epilating products and the frequency of sensitization to colophony, it is somewhat surprising that reports of allergic contact dermatitis from these products are so infrequent. Reactions to colophony can be severe, and they may present even after initial exposure (primary sensitization). Consequently, health care practitioners should be aware of potential colophony-induced allergic contact dermatitis in patients exposed to epilating products. Patch testing with commercially available colophony unmodified rosins often fails to detect reactions to the modified-rosin derivatives found in the actual epilating products. Therefore, the evaluation of colophony allergy may require testing with the patient's own products as well as additional modified colophony rosins. We describe a case of allergic contact dermatitis caused by colophony found in an epilating product.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Hair Removal; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Waxes

Colophonium (gum rosin) consists of numerous compounds. We have previously shown that abietic acid (Fig. 1), the major compound in gum rosin, is oxidized to strong contact allergens at air exposure (1). The most potent allergen identified is 15-hydroperoxyabietic acid (15-HPA, Fig. 1), which was isolated as its methyl ester (Fig. 1) and used for patch testing (2, 3). The aim of this study was to confirm the previous postulate that methyl esterification of the carboxyl group in 15-HPA does not affect the allergenic activity.

Topics: Abietanes; Air; Air Pollutants; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Environmental Exposure; Esterification; Humans; Methylation; Oxidation-Reduction; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

A 62-year-old female patient with a venous leg ulcer developed massive eczema during wound bed preparation with the hydrocolloid dressing Varihesive. The patch testing confirmed a pronounced sensitization to the hydrocolloid dressing apart from the sensitization to colophony. After review of the current literature we found several case reports from the last 10 years about sensitization to hydrocolloids which were identical but distributed under different brand names in different countries. These dressings contain the pentaerythritol ester of hydrogenated rosin as the tackifying agent which is the substance retaining the sensitizing potential of colophony. Especially patients with chronic wounds frequently tend to contact sensitizations, and colophony currently represents the 4th most frequent allergen in Germany. Therefore, highly potent allergens such as colophony should be strictly avoided as a content material of modern wound dressings.

Topics: Allergens; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Risk Factors; Varicose Ulcer

Topics: Allergens; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Ear, External; Eyeglasses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Plastics; Resins, Plant

Pine wood is one of the most used raw products in furniture manufacturing in Europe. High concentrations of colophony and turpentine can be extracted from pine resins. A 45-year-old woman developed a contact dermatitis of the face and hands due to a sensitization to colophony and turpentine after she had bought untreated pine chairs. The increased use of untreated pine in the furniture industry might result in an increase of colophony and turpentine-induced contact allergies. Therefore, the slogan "untreated=harmless" should be considered critically in such cases.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Interior Design and Furnishings; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant; Solvents; Turpentine

The prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis is high. Patch testing is the standard procedure to detect contact sensitivity. More than 3000 allergens are known, today. On the basis of the data of this study the top allergens are presented.. The retrospective analysis is based on the patch test results collected by the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology in 2004. Data of 9948 patients (6175 female und 3773 male) referred for the evaluation of suspected contact allergy were analysed to determine the frequency of sensitization to the 10 most common contact allergens.. The top ten allergens were nickel sulphate (frequency of sensitization standardized for sex and age 17.2 %), fragrance mix (7.2 %), balsam of Peru (6.7 %), cobalt chloride (6.5 %), potassium dichromate (5.3 %), colophony (4.6 %), lanolin alcohol (4.3 %), p-phenylenediamine (4.2 %), ammoniated mercury (3.5 %) und methyldibromoglutaronitrile/phenoxyethanol (3.4 %) in 2004.. Even after healing of the skin lesions of allergic contact dermatitis, it must be considered that sensitization persists indefinitely. Therefore, patients have to be informed exactly about their relevant contact allergens to ensure complete avoidance. To do so, physicians need a detailed knowledge of the most common contact allergens which are discussed in this paper.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Ammonia; Balsams; Chromium; Cobalt; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Ethylene Glycols; Female; Humans; Lanolin; Male; Mercuric Chloride; Nickel; Nitriles; Patch Tests; Perfume; Phenylenediamines; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; Resins, Plant; Retrospective Studies

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Male; Occupational Exposure; Resins, Plant; Surgical Tape

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Glycerides; Humans; Resins, Plant

Colophony is an ubiquitous contact sensitizer which may be present in dental materials, such as periodontal dressings, impression materials, cements, fix adhesives and varnishes. Exposure to a sensitizer in a hypersensitive person may initiate an allergic contact dermatitis/stomatitis. This usually occurs after direct skin/mucosa contact with the sensitizer. This paper reports the case of a colophony hypersensitive male who developed contact stomatitis after dental treatment with a colophony-containing product.. Sensitizing colophony is present in Duraphat 2.26%F varnish, a fluoride varnish used all over the world. A case of hypersensitivity to Duraphat 2.26%F varnish is presented in a patient who, at the initial visit, indicated only an allergy to sticking plasters.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Drug Hypersensitivity; Fluorides, Topical; Humans; Hypersensitivity, Immediate; Male; Resins, Plant; Sodium Fluoride; Stomatitis

Topics: Abietanes; Adult; Allergens; Coloring Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Humans; Male; Music; Neck; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Turpentine

A 13-year-old girl presented with a recurring vulval dermatitis that started several days after first using a sanitary pad. The rash settled but recurred with subsequent use of the same sanitary pads. Patch testing revealed a marked sensitivity (3+) to colophony (rosin). She denied previous reactions to adhesive tape/sticking plaster. During patch testing she also developed reactions to a black permanent waterproof marking pen used to mark the site of patch tests. The ink of this pen also contained colophony.

Topics: Adolescent; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Vulvar Diseases

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Fingers; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Music; Nickel; Resins, Plant; Wood

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; England; Female; Foot Dermatoses; Humans; Patch Tests; Portugal; Resins, Plant; Shoes; Tanning

Endo-maleopimaric acid (MPA) is a contact allergen formed when colophonium is "modified" with maleic anhydride or fumaric acid. Previous patch testing showed a higher allergic response to petrolatum (pet.) preparations of MPA in amorphous form compared to MPA in crystalline form. In the present study, the impact of the physical form of MPA on the allergic response was investigated. Since the amorphous form is difficult to standardize, crystalline MPA mechanically incorporated or dissolved in pet. was used. A lower eliciting capacity was obtained from crystalline MPA, compared to that obtained from dissolved MPA, in guinea pigs intradermally induced with MPA. Using 3H-MPA a 3X difference in the dissolution into synthetic sweat from MPA dissolved in pet., compared to MPA mechanically incorporated, was demonstrated. A difference in bio-availability between dissolved and crystalline MPA could therefore be assumed. Crystalline MPA had a low sensitizing capacity compared to that seen for amorphous MPA in previous studies. The amorphous form of MPA is likely to have a larger surface area than crystalline MPA, with less ordered molecules, resulting in a higher dissolution rate and a greater bio-availability. Modified colophonium exists as amorphous solids and as viscous liquids. Thus, exposure will probably be to non-crystalline MPA and cases of contact allergy could be overlooked when screening with crystalline MPA.

Topics: Allergens; Animals; Biological Availability; Crystallization; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Guinea Pigs; Patch Tests; Petrolatum; Resins, Plant; Skin; Solubility; Triterpenes

The aim of this study was to determine any occupationally relevant allergic contact sensitizations in hand dermatitis in a jeweler. Patch test with European Standard, vehicle, medicaments, and metal series (Finn chambers on Scanpor) was performed. Readings were taken on day 2 and day 4. Allergic positive reaction to colophonium 20% pet and silver nitrate 0.5% aq was detected. The contact sensitivities to silver and colophonium seem to be occupationally relevant in this case.

Topics: Aged; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Diagnosis, Differential; Forearm; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Leg; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Silver

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Leg Ulcer; Male; Patch Tests; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Dental Technicians; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Male; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Chromatography, Gas; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Incontinence Pads; Resins, Plant; Tampons, Surgical

Melaleuca alternifolia is a coniferous tree found in tropical regions, the needles contain an essential oil that is used in medical and cosmetic products. The essential oil contains turpentines (limonene, alpha-pinene, phellandrene) that are potentially allergenic.. In 1997, 1216 patients were patch tested in our dermatoligic unit. Fourteen of them tested because of eczema used products containing tea tree oil. The patients used creams, hair products and essential oils containing Melaleuca alternifolia for cosmetic reasons and to treat skin affections. They were patch tested for a standard panel of allergens, topical emulgators, perfumes, plants, topical medications, metal, gloves, topical disinfectants and preservatives, dental products and rubber derivatives. Products containing Melaleuca alternifolia were tested concentrated or diluted.. We report on 7 cases of patients with an allergic contact dermatitis due to tea tree oil. Two of them also exhibited from a delayed type IV hypersensitivity towards fragrance-mix or colophony suggesting the possibility of cross reaction or an allergic group reaction caused by contamination of the colophony with the volatile fraction of turpentines.. The allergic potential of low concentrations of Melaleuca alternifolia is presumed to be low on healthy skin. Photoaged Melaleuca alternifolia must be considered to be a stronger sensitizer.

Topics: Adult; Anti-Infective Agents, Local; Bicyclic Monoterpenes; Cosmetics; Cyclohexenes; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity, Delayed; Limonene; Male; Middle Aged; Monoterpenes; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tea Tree Oil; Terpenes

A 21-year-old woman who presented with acute eczema was diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis from colofonium in tape that she used after a sprain of her left ankle.

Topics: Acute Disease; Adhesives; Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant; Skin

Patch testing to fragrances is an important step in the diagnosis of fragrance allergy.. To determine the usefulness of adding propolis to the European standard series to test for fragrance allergy.. A total of 2660 consecutive patients were patch tested with a standard patch test series; 747 suspected of fragrance allergy were tested further with a special fragrance series.. The positive results to the standard series in 2660 patients were: fragrance mix 243 (9.1%), Myroxylon Pereirae [balsam of Peru] 144 (5.4%), colophony 32 (1.2%); these fragrance mixtures are used as screening substances for fragrance allergy in the European standard series. Propolis, also known as bee's glue, was also an important allergen in this locally revised standard series (n = 35, 1.3%). Positive reactions to the aforementioned allergens were associated significantly among each other (P < 0.01, chi2-test) and did not differ between the sexes. The primary locations of dermatitis in patients with a positive test to one or more fragrance allergens (n = 162) among those suspected of fragrance allergy (n = 747) were: face 46.9%, hands 23.5%, neck 17.9%, axillae 12.3%; 92 of the 747 patients suspected of fragrance allergy had positive skin tests to the special fragrance series comprising the eight constituents of the fragrance mix (most frequent: isoeugenol 5.4%, oakmoss absolute 5.0%, eugenol 2.5%) and 14 other fragrance allergens (most frequent: clove oil 1.6%, lemon grass oil 0.8%, cedar wood oil 0.7%). The additional value of propolis as another screening substance for fragrance allergy in these patients was low. The likelihood of a reaction to one or more of the extra fragrance allergens increased with the number of reactions to fragrance screening allergens in the standard series.. The number of positive reactions to fragrance screening allergens in a standard patch test series may be used as a rule of thumb for predicting a positive outcome of a more detailed testing to fragrances. Propolis is an important allergen in its own right but its value as a screening substance for fragrance allergy is limited.

Topics: Adult; Balsams; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Perfume; Predictive Value of Tests; Propolis; Prospective Studies; Resins, Plant; Sensitivity and Specificity

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Resins, Plant

The factors which determine individual susceptibility to the development of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) are not well defined. Since it is known that the presence of skin irritation is well-documented as a promoter of sensitization, the sensitivity to irritation of subjects with ACD has been compared with a normal control group. Whilst 78% of those with a positive patch test reaction to the contact allergen colophony (colophonium) responded to a concentration of no higher than 2.5% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), only 44% of the matched control group reacted at this level of SLS. Thus, the results are consistent with the hypothesis that individuals with enhanced susceptibility to skin irritation are also more liable to develop allergic skin reactivity.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Allergens; Case-Control Studies; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Disease Susceptibility; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Humans; Immunization; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Tars

Topics: Adult; Air Pollutants, Occupational; Animal Husbandry; Animals; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dust; Housing, Animal; Humans; Male; Resins, Plant; Tars; Wood

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Allergens; Antineoplastic Agents; Cross Reactions; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Eczema; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant; Tars

The ability of a physician to select individuals likely to benefit from patch testing depends on his or her ability to interpret responses to enquiries related to contact allergy. The significance of such responses to questions of nickel, fragrance and colophon allergy is unclear.. The specificity, sensitivity and predictive value of questions relating to nickel, fragrance and colophony allergy were determined.. A total of 258 patients attending for routine patch testing were questioned about skin reactions to nickel, fragrances and Elastoplast (Smith and Nephew Healthcare, Hull, England). All subjects were then patch tested to nickel, fragrance mix, and colophony. Responses to questions were compared with patch test results.. The sensitivity of questions relating to nickel, fragrance, and colophony was 82%, 49%, and 71%, respectively. The specificity of the same questions was 77%, 79%, and 90%; the positive predictive value was 54%, 46% and 29%, respectively. After adjustment to include clinical relevance, the sensitivity of nickel questions rose to 100%.. These data permit greater understanding of the role of patient history in selection of patients for patch testing.

Topics: Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Medical History Taking; Nickel; Patch Tests; Perfume; Predictive Value of Tests; Resins, Plant; Sensitivity and Specificity; Surveys and Questionnaires

Topics: Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Resins, Plant; Tars; Trees

Topics: Adult; Chewing Gum; Child; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Mouth Diseases; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Music; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Plant Extracts; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adhesives; Adult; Air Pollutants; Automobiles; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

We describe 2 cases of occupational allergic contact dermatitis followed by leukoderma. The 1st case was a 49-year-old wood machinist who developed leukoderma in areas of contact dermatitis involving his lips, neck, hands and forearms and was found to be allergic to colophony and pine sawdust on patch testing. The 2nd case involved a 44-year-old man who worked as an epoxy applicator in a ceramics factory. He developed depigmentation in areas of contact dermatitis involving his face, hands, forearms, back, thighs and legs and was found on patch testing to be allergic to epoxy resin. The appearance of contact leukoderma may be indistinguishable from idiopathic vitiligo. However the prognosis for repigmentation may be better in contact leukoderma than in idiopathic vitiligo.

Topics: Adult; Benzocaine; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dust; Epoxy Resins; Humans; Hypopigmentation; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Wood

Topics: Child, Preschool; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Foot Dermatoses; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Molecular Structure; Resins, Plant; Shoes; Tars

Topics: Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Colloids; Cross Reactions; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Occlusive Dressings; Patch Tests; Propylene Glycols; Resins, Plant

Comparative light microscopic studies have revealed subtle differences between allergic and irritant reactions in the skin. In the search for specific differences, we focussed on the early inflammatory response. This pilot study was conducted to test the hypothesis that follicular spongiosis can differentiate between early allergic and irritant patch test reactions. 8 patients with known contact allergy to either colophony or quarternium-15 participated in the study. In each patient, allergic and irritant patch tests reactions were elicited, and 4-mm punch biopsies were taken after 6 8 h from clinically equipotent reactions. Paired sets of slides were assessed blindly by 2 pathologists. 1 patient showing a pityrosporum folliculitis was excluded from the study. All biopsies from allergic patch tests were characterized by follicular spongiosis, while biopsies from irritant patch tests showed no recognizable changes except a slight follicular spongiosis in 1 patient. The 2 pathologists agreed independently on the correct classification in 6 out of 7 cases (p=0.0156). We tested an optimized model, selecting non-irritant allergens and a well-known irritant. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the diagnostic significance of the histological classification of allergic and irritant cutaneous reactions in punch biopsies.

Topics: Adult; Biopsy; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Pilot Projects; Resins, Plant; Skin; Time Factors

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Dental Assistants; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Intradermal Tests; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars

It is desirable to further evaluate the clinical relevance of a positive patch test. The repeated open application test (ROAT) has been suggested as such a supplementary method. To compare the results of patch testing with the outcome of ROATs, 13 colophony-sensitive subjects and 9 controls were patch-tested with colophony in a serial dilution test. Five microliters, of three concentrations of a colophony solution and the vehicle were then applied to small test areas on the lower arm, once daily for 2 weeks. Prior to each application, all test sites were examined visually and with bioengineering techniques. In the ROATs, 10/13 colophony-sensitive subjects--but no controls--reacted to a 20% colophony solution, 4 also 1%. A correlation was found between the threshold concentration at patch testing and the outcome of ROATs. There was great variation in the reactivity in the ROATs. Objective measures for evaluating the ROAT reactions gave no further information than visual assessment.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Irritants; Laser-Doppler Flowmetry; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Skin Test End-Point Titration; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Adult; Cheilitis; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Humans; Resins, Plant; Ricinoleic Acids

Commercial preparations of colophony (rosin) used for patch testing are made from unmodified rosin in pet. and may be stored for some considerable time before being used. This would be satisfactory if the composition and dermatological activity of the preparations were both reproducible and stable, but investigations by the authors have shown that the resin acids undergo progressive and substantial oxidation and that the dermatological activity of the preparations increases significantly with time. This may be a cause of inconsistent patch test results unless the composition can be stabilized. Gas liquid chromatography (GLC) analysis of a raw rosin sample and its commercial patch test preparation has shown that they both contained the same resin acids, but the concentration of the abietic type resin acids was found to be lower in the patch test preparations. The degradation of resin acids is due to their atmospheric oxidation, which may occur during the preparation and storage of the commercial rosin patch test preparation. The susceptibility of individual resin acids to atmospheric oxidation was demonstrated by analysing a sample of raw Portuguese gum rosin, which was then left exposed to air and light. Most of the resin acids were found to undergo oxidation at a rate which gradually diminished. More importantly, it is presumed that the concentration of oxidized resin acids increased correspondingly, and these have been shown to be more dermatologically active than the unoxidised resin acids. The rate of decrease of resin acid concentration was found to be in the following order: neoabietic>levopimaric and palustric>abietic>dehydroabetic acid. The pimaric type resin acids were found to be relatively inert to atmospheric oxidation when compared with the abietic type resin acids. Patch testing with the resulting partly oxidized Portuguese rosin produced positive reactions at a 35% higher frequency than the raw Portuguese rosin. The study demonstrates that the allergic potential of unmodified rosin may increase with exposure to air and light. It is therefore recommended that rosin preparations are analysed routinely as part of a quality control programme, which will enable better validation and comparison of patch test results from different dermatological centres. Since the oxidized resin acids are the main allergens in unmodified rosin, it is important that the concentration of the oxidized resin acids is kept high as well as constant in commercial patch

Topics: Allergens; Chromatography, Gas; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Oxidation-Reduction; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Music; Nickel; Occupational Diseases; Occupational Exposure; Propolis; Resins, Plant; Wood

Colophony--also called rosin--is a material obtained from coniferous trees. It is used widely in many products, particularly because of its good tackifying properties. Colophony is also used in paper sizing to increase water resistance. Colophony may cause contact allergy, and around 5% of Swedish dermatitis patients show allergic reactions to colophony at patch testing. There are many case reports of colophony in different products causing contact dermatitis. Often, however, the clinical relevance of a positive patch-test reaction to colophony is difficult to evaluate. The principal aims of the present thesis were to study the prevalence of contact allergy to colophony and of skin disease in individuals with an occupational exposure to colophony; to study the prognosis of dermatitis in colophony-sensitive subjects, and to investigate the outcome of repeated open applications of colophony, thereby trying to elucidate the clinical relevance of contact allergy to colophony. Employees of a tall-oil rosin (colophony) factory (n = 180), and of an opera company where colophony was used in dancers' rosin, mascara and wig glues (n = 132), were interviewed, examined and patch tested. 3.9% and 2% of these two groups respectively had a positive patch test to colophony. More than every fourth participant showed some kind of skin disease, but only few cases were related to work. Eighty-three patients with previously diagnosed contact allergy to colophony were followed-up 72% showed a positive patch-test reaction to colophony at re-testing. Around one third had hand eczema. There was no significant correlation between colophony exposure and current hand eczema. Adhesive bandages containing colophony and zinc oxide (ZnO), colophony and mixes of colophony and ZnO, were tested in 7 colophony-sensitive subjects to see whether addition of zinc oxide inhibited elicitation of allergic dermatitis to colophony, which has been proposed. No difference in reactivity between colophony and colophony/ZnO was seen at patch testing, and there were positive patch-test reactions to all colophony-containing bandages. Thus no inhibitory effect of ZnO was shown. Repeated open application tests were performed with cobalt chloride and colophony in sensitized guinea pigs. The animals were also patch-tested. A dose-response correlation was found with both cobalt chloride and colophony. There was a concordance between patch-test reactions and reactions at repeated open application tests, the hig

Topics: Adult; Animals; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Laser-Doppler Flowmetry; Male; Middle Aged; Occupational Diseases; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Plant Oils; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Tars; Water Loss, Insensible

A relevance scoring system for positive allergic patch test reactions is proposed. It refers to current relevance (CR) as well as past relevance (PR). The system was evaluated in adult patients between January 1 and June 30, 1996, and limited to 4 allergens: nickel sulfate, neomycin sulfate, epoxy resin and colophony. Certain methods available for increasing the accuracy of relevance were used in the present study. Practical implications and limitations of using a relevance scoring system are discussed.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Allergens; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Epoxy Resins; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Neomycin; Nickel; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars

Topics: Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Lip Diseases; Middle Aged; Pigments, Biological; Resins, Plant; United Kingdom

Airborne contact dermatitis is a challenging entity that requires comprehensive patch testing and exposure review to diagnose accurately.. Four patients with airborne contact dermatitis and positive patch tests to colophony were evaluated.. Patch testing was performed on all patients using a modified European standard series plus additional applicable allergens.. All patients had positive patch tests to colophony and exposure to pine dust.. Patch testing is a critical element in the evaluation of patients presenting with an airborne pattern of contact dermatitis.

Topics: Adult; Air Pollutants; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dust; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Wood

A 73-year-old man presented with an 8-year history of a dermatitis affecting his face, dorsum of hands, and forearms. He was a retired cabinet maker but still carried out some timber work at home. He was patch tested and found to be positive to colophony and saw-dust samples from four different timbers: Silky Oak, Queensland Hoop Pine, Radiata Pine and Australian red cedar.

Topics: Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Wood

Topics: Aged; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Male; Paper; Recurrence; Resins, Plant

Hydrocolloid wound dressings have been in use for nearly two decades, and have rarely caused allergic contact dermatitis. DuoDERM E (DuoDERM CGF) is a newer version of DuoDERM (ConvaTec Ltd, a division of Bristol-Myers Squibb Co, Princeton, NJ) that contains a sensitizing derivative of colophony.. We describe three patients who developed eczematous lesions under this type of wound covering.. The patients were patch tested to the European standard series, to a glues and adhesives series, and to pieces of various adhesive dressings.. The patients displayed positive patch tests to colophony and to DuoDERM E or DuoDERM CGF hydrocolloid dressings.. These dressings contain the pentaerythritol ester of hydrogenated rosin as a tackifying agent, and this substance retains the sensitizing potential of colophony. The addition of this compound is an important change that may negatively alter the good safety record of ConvaTec dressings.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Bandages, Hydrocolloid; Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium; Colloids; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Occlusive Dressings; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant

Rosin is a well recognised skin sensitiser and is also amongst the most common causes of occupational asthma. Due to its complex chemical composition, it is difficult to isolate its many components and this has hindered progress in the identification of the specific respiratory and contact allergens it contains. This paper reports the application of high-performance liquid chromatography and other analytical techniques to the isolation and identification of contact allergens in complex mixtures such as rosin. HPLC methods were developed in order to isolate as many rosin components as possible and these were then patch tested on rosin sensitive individuals. The structure of the most dermatologically active component was then determined using mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared techniques. An HPLC method has also been developed which will enable the identification of rosin in commercial products, providing a valuable tool for determining the cause of rosin contact allergy. Furthermore, mass spectral data for the common abieitic-type resin acids are compiled which were used to confirm the identification of the HPLC resin acid peaks and have not been reported previously.

Topics: Allergens; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; Mass Spectrometry; Resins, Plant; Spectrophotometry, Infrared; Tars

The repeated open application test is used to assess the clinical relevance of positive patch test reactions to ingredients of formulated products. The great variation in outcome is usually claimed to be related to the concentration of the allergen responsible. We have here studied the quantitative aspects, specificity and effect of patch testing on the outcome of the repeated open application test in an animal model, using guinea pigs sensitized with cobalt chloride or colophony. Thresholds of sensitivity were determined before and after the topical treatments. Clear dose-response relationships were established. The reactivity in sham-treated controls and to the vehicles was minimal. The concordance between patch test results and outcome of the use tests was concentration-dependent and at low concentrations < 50%. The repeated open application test is a useful method, but some of the basic issues need further evaluation. This animal model will hopefully serve this purpose.

Topics: Animals; Antimutagenic Agents; Cobalt; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Disease Models, Animal; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Guinea Pigs; Patch Tests; Reference Values; Resins, Plant; Sensitivity and Specificity; Tars

Colophony is commonly used in many products that we are exposed to both at work and during leisure. At our Department, about 5% of patch tested dermatitis patients show positive reactions to colophony. 83 patients in whom contact allergy to colophony had been diagnosed were followed up after 9-13 years. They were interviewed, examined and retested. At least 30% had current hand eczema on follow-up examination. Among those in whom the dermatitis had started on the hands, there were proportionally more individuals with current hand eczema than among those in whom the onset had been on other parts of the body. 72% of the participants were still patch-test-positive to colophony, and more than 1/2 had additional positive reactions to other allergens. Some of these additional reactions were new compared to the previous test occasion. The degree of exposure to colophony throughout the years was difficult to estimate. Contact allergy to colophony was considered occupational in individuals with, e.g., soldering jobs.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Prognosis; Resins, Plant; Risk Factors; Sex Distribution; Tars

In order to investigate the contact allergens in the unmodified colophony (rosin) used in routine patch testing, preparative chromatographic techniques were used to separate its components which were then patch tested on colophony-sensitive individuals. The chemical structure of the dermatologically active components was elucidated using mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and infra-red techniques. The study shows that oxidized resin acids are stronger sensitizers than the resin acids themselves, the most potent contact allergen being 7-oxydehydroabietic acid (purity 92%). At naturally occurring concentrations (relative to abietic acid) all unoxidized resin acids were found to play an insignificant part, individually, in colophony dermatitis, except abietic acid (purity 99%), which was found to be a weak but important allergen. The commercial Trolab abietic acid preparation (unknown purity) was found to be dermatologically more active than purified abietic acid.

Topics: Abietanes; Adult; Allergens; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Phenanthrenes; Resins, Plant

Topics: Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Eyelid Diseases; Formaldehyde; Humans; Mercury; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Beauty Culture; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Hair Removal; Humans; Resins, Plant

As part of the investigation of sources of exposure to rosin allergens, disposable diapers (napkins) common on the Swedish market were analyzed, using gas chromatography, to detect the main rosin compounds. Rosin components were detected in all diapers, the highest amounts in those from the 2 major producers. In these diapers, more rosin was found in the top layer, which is in close contact with the skin than in the fluff. Despite the possibly minimal risk of induction of sensitization to rosin allergens in diapers, there is a real risk of elicitation of dermatitis in sensitive individuals, especially since penetration is enhanced by occlusion and irritation. Such material is not only used for infant diapers, but also for adult incontinence products and feminine hygiene products.

Topics: Abietanes; Adult; Allergens; Chromatography, Gas; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Humans; Incontinence Pads; Infant; Infant Care; Irritants; Menstrual Hygiene Products; Phenanthrenes; Resins, Plant; Risk Factors; Sweden

To estimate the occurrence of skin symptoms and the prevalence of contact allergy to occupational allergens, 84 male 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 volunteers were tested with dilution series of wood dust extracts. Major colophony compounds in the dust extracts were analyzed with gas chromatography. We found 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.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Allergens; Chromatography, Gas; Cohort Studies; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dust; Eczema; Formaldehyde; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Juniperus; Male; Middle Aged; Nickel; Patch Tests; Plant Extracts; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; Prevalence; Resins, Plant; Sweden; Tars; Teaching; Thiazoles; Trees; Wood

We report 3 cases of contact dermatitis in rosin-sensitive individuals caused by exposure to airborne rosin components from different sources. Case no. 1 was a female office worker with a facial dermatitis caused by rosin components which emanated from the linoleum floor covering in her office. Floor material containing wood flour and rosin was released into the air, causing a facial dermatitis in the rosin-sensitive subject. Case no. 2 involved a woman who worked in a factory producing dairy product cartons and had a dermatitis on her lower legs, lower arms and upper chest. Her dermatitis was caused by dust from the paper cartons and contact allergy to rosin components probably aggravated her dermatitis. Case no. 3 was a female office worker with a relapsing dermatitis on her eyelids. Her dermatitis was caused by a rosin-containing floor polish, which was seen as a powder on the office floor. Extracts of suspected material and products were patch tested and analysed for the presence of rosin components with HPLC and GC techniques. A discussion and recommendations on chemical analyses of rosin components follow. We conclude that a thorough investigation, including chemical analyses, can rule out non-specific diagnoses and offer a solution to the patient's skin problems.

Topics: Air Pollutants; Chromatography, Gas; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dust; Environmental Exposure; Eyelids; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Household Products; Humans; Leg Dermatoses; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars

Most rosin (colophony) used today is chemically modified. Will contact allergy to modified rosin be overlooked when testing is performed with only unmodified rosin in the standard series? 2 components from modified rosins, maleopimaric acid (MPA) and glyceryl I-monoabietate (GMA), earlier identified as contact allergens, were added to the patch test standard series. Some commonly-used modified rosin products were also tested. Positive reactions were observed to the modified components MPA and GMA. Of the patients with positive reactions to MPA and GMA, several did not react to unmodified rosin in the standard series. No reaction was observed to the modified rosin products without a concomitant reaction to unmodified rosin. The positive reactions observed to the modified rosins may be due to residual unmodified material in the product, but a possible contribution from allergenic modified rosin components cannot be disregarded. When a patient's history indicates a rosin allergy, but a negative response to unmodified rosin in the standard series is observed, additional testing with GMA and MPA or, second best, with glycerol-esterified rosin and maleic-anhydride-modified rosin is recommended. Some modified rosin products, which could be used for additional testing, are suggested.

Topics: Abietanes; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Esterification; Glycerol; Humans; Patch Tests; Portugal; Resins, Plant; Sweden; Triterpenes

839 patients were patch tested with a series of 31 plastics and glues allergens at a dermatologic clinic over a period of 7 years. 52 (6%) had a positive patch test reaction to 1 or more such allergens. Clinic charts of 47 patients (out of 52) were available for the study. All but 3 patients had dermatitis on their hands: 17 had only hand dermatitis. 25 (53%) patients' test results were of present or past relevance to their skin diseases. 11 patients (68%) with occupational allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and 14 (45%) with non-occupational dermatitis had relevant reactions. p-tertiary-butylphenol-formaldehyde resin was the most common allergen (9 cases). 7 patients reacted to diaminodiphenylmethane. 5 patients, who had colophony allergy, reacted to abietic acid and 4 to abitol. There was no reaction to 14 test substances. Special series, such as this plastics and glues series, reveal the cause of ACD less frequently than standard series. However, there is no other way to confirm allergy to these usually industrial allergens, which can also sensitize through non-occupational exposure during hobby working or through unpolymerized monomer left in the finished plastic product.

Topics: Adhesives; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Dermatitis, Occupational; Ethylenediamines; Female; Finland; Formaldehyde; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Plastics; Resins, Plant; Resorcinols

Topics: Abietanes; Adhesives; Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Female; Humans; Phenanthrenes; Plastics; Resins, Plant; Urticaria

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Formaldehyde; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Paper; Resins, Plant

The frequencies of cosmetics intolerance and contact allergy to colophony were investigated among 116 singers and dancers and 16 make-up artists. Participants were interviewed, examined and patch tested with a standard series and materials from the opera house. Common skin lesions were found in 1/3 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 balsam of Peru was about the same as among dermatitis patients generally. Contact allergy to colophony did not seem to be a problem regarding cosmetics.

Topics: Adult; Cosmetics; Dancing; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Music; Occupational Exposure; Patch Tests; Prevalence; Resins, Plant

A connection between patch test reactions to paper extracts and contact allergy to rosin (colophony) has been demonstrated.. We wanted to determine whether a difference in the allergenic activity of various types of paper is related to a difference in the pulp.. Patients with dermatitis who were frequently exposed to paper were patch tested with extracts from various papers and the standard series. The extracts were also tested in volunteers with or without contact allergy to rosin and in animals. The rosin compounds in the papers were analyzed by gas chromatography.. The subjects reacting to paper extracts also reacted to rosin. Most reactions were found to the papers produced from mechanical pulps, which contained the highest analyzed amounts of rosin compounds. Animals sensitized to rosin reacted only to paper from mechanical pulp.. Papers based on mechanical pulps that are considered to be environmentally friendly have a greater potential to elicit positive patch test reactions than papers made from other pulps. The increased use of mechanical pulps in different applications may increase the incidence of rosin-related hand eczema.

Topics: Abietanes; Allergens; Animals; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Dermatitis, Occupational; Diterpenes; Eczema; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Immunization; Male; Paper; Patch Tests; Phenanthrenes; Resins, Plant

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatologic Agents; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Resins, Plant; Skin Diseases; Tars; Warts

Putative allergens in, clinical manifestations of, and patch tests with traditional Chinese medicinal materials (CMM) causing contact dermatitis (CD) were studied. 14 patients with CMM CD and 351 controls were patch tested with the standard series of allergens of Beijing Medical University and the suspected drug, as is. It was found that most CMM CD was caused by the CMM frequently used topically for analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. All patients patch tested with the suspected drug gave positive results. Some patients also reacted to fragrance mix, colophony, rubber mix and ammoniated mercury. The positivity rates of fragrance mix and colophony in CMM CD patients were significantly higher than in controls (55.6% versus 16.5% for fragrance mix, chi 2 = 11.86, p < 0.01; and 55.6% versus 5.1% for colophony, chi 2 = 29.35, p < 0.01), while not those of rubber mix and ammoniated mercury. Results indicated that the topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory CMM, especially those containing fragrance, may cause contact sensitization. Clinical findings in CMM CD included cutaneous irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, immediate contact reactions and systemic contact dermatitis. CMM CD can be diagnosed by patch testing the putative drug, as is.

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adolescent; Adult; Ammonia; Analgesics; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Drug Eruptions; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity, Immediate; Male; Mercuric Chloride; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Perfume; Resins, Plant; Rubber; Tars

Adhesives and bandages containing zinc oxide (ZnO) and rosin are often used for treatment of ulcers. The aim of this work was to study a possible inhibitory effect of ZnO on the elicitation of allergic contact reactions to rosin and to determine whether such an effect might be due to the formation of zinc resinates. Patch testing in rosin-sensitive patients was performed with mixes of ZnO and rosin. The eliciting capacities of one mix in which zinc resinates might be formed and another mix in which the formation of zinc resinates was prevented, were compared to the eliciting capacity of rosin alone. If a reduction of the allergic response was observed for the mix in which zinc resinates might form and if no reduction was observed for the mix in which formation of zinc resinates was prevented, this would support the hypothesis that the reduction in eliciting capacity was due to formation of zinc resinates. However, we could not see any difference in eliciting capacity when comparing the 2 mixes with a test preparation of rosin. Commercial adhesives (bandages) containing ZnO and rosin were patch tested in 7 rosin-sensitive patients. The concentration of abietic acid in the adhesives was determined with HPLC. Abietic acid was detected in all but one of those declared to contain rosin. The patients reacted to the adhesives in which abietic acid was detected. For rosin-sensitive persons, the addition of ZnO to rosin-containing adhesives cannot be regarded as an appropriate measure to inhibit the elicitation of allergic reactions.

Topics: Abietanes; Adhesives; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatologic Agents; Diterpenes; Humans; Occlusive Dressings; Patch Tests; Phenanthrenes; Resins, Plant; Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared; Tars; Zinc Oxide

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Humans; Music; Pruritus Vulvae; Resins, Plant

Topics: Acne Vulgaris; Adult; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Drug Eruptions; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Humans; Oils, Volatile; Plant Oils; Resins, Plant; Tea Tree Oil

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Eyeglasses; Facial Dermatoses; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant; Waxes

Rosin is a ubiquitous contact sensitizer which may be present in dental materials such as periodontal dressings, impression materials, cements, and cavity varnishes When a hypersensitive person is exposed to a sensitizer, allergic contact dermatitis/stomatitis may develop, most commonly after direct skin/mucosa contact with the sensitizer. However, widespread dermatitis may develop after systemic administration of the sensitizer, and this paper reports the case of a rosin-hypersensitive man who developed widespread eczematous dermatitis after dental treatment with a rosin-containing product.

Topics: Balsams; Chloroform; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Quinolines; Resins, Plant; Root Canal Filling Materials; Tars

Topics: Adult; Colloids; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Drug Eruptions; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Occlusive Dressings; Resins, Plant; Tars

Gäfvert, E. 1994. Allergenic components in modified and unmodified rosin. Chemical characterization and studies of allergenic activity. Acta Dermato-Venereologica. Suppl. 184. 36pp. Uppsala. Unmodified rosin (colophony) is a well-known cause of contact allergy (delayed type hypersensitivity). Rosin is obtained from coniferous trees and consists mainly of diterpenoid resin acids. Most rosin used in technical products is chemically modified. In the common modification of rosin with maleic anhydride, the major product formed is maleopimaric acid (MPA). MPA was identified in experimental sensitization studies as a potent contact allergen. MPA is also formed when rosin is modified with fumaric acid at high temperature and with prolonged heating. The amounts of MPA in technical quality rosins modified with maleic anhydride or fumaric acid might be enough to sensitize individuals handling these rosins. The major product of the modification of rosin with fumaric acid, fumaropimaric acid (FPA), did not elicit any reactions in the animals tested. In another common rosin modification, glycerol esterification, the major product formed was identified as glyceryl triabietate (GTA). In an experimental sensitization study none of the animals reacted to GTA. However, a minor product formed, glyceryl 1-monoabietate (GMA) showed sensitizing capacity. The presence of new contact allergens due to the modification, together with remaining unmodified material, contributes to the risk of developing allergy from contact with these types of rosin. A new main contact allergen in unmodified rosin was identified; 13,14(beta)-epoxyabietic acid. The allergenicity of this epoxide was comparable to that of an earlier identified rosin allergen, 15-hydroperoxyabietic acid (15-HPA). The allergens were detected as their methyl esters. Experimental sensitization and cross-reactivity of oxidation products of resin acids were studied. A pattern of cross-reactivity was observed which indicates that the hydroperoxide of abietic acid (15-HPA) may react to form a complete antigen via two different routes. One route seems to be via the formation of epoxides which then react with skin protein to form the complete antigen, and the other, via radical formation due to cleavage of the peroxide bond. The radical formed may then react with skin protein, so producing the complete antigen. Few other studies have shown results indicating the formation of several antigens from one hapten.

Topics: Abietanes; Allergens; Animals; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Complement Inactivator Proteins; Cross Reactions; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Epoxy Compounds; Female; Glycerol; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant; Tars; Triglycerides; Triterpenes

Degradation of abietic, levopimaric and dehydroabietic acids after exposure to air and light over a period of one to several months, as well as examination of degraded French tall oil rosin and Portuguese colophony, led to the isolation of numerous oxidation products. These compounds were synthesized and consigned to experimental sensitization in guinea pigs. From 20 substances studied as acids or as their methyl esters, in the present and preceding paper, at least 2 can be named: 8,12-peroxydo-delta 13(14)-dihydroabietic acid and 12 alpha-hydroxyabietic acid, that contribute a great deal to colophony allergy by both their sensitizing capacity and their determined concentration in the mixture of degradation products. We recommend the preparation of a new mixture of colophony oxidation products for patch testing in the diagnosis of contact allergy to colophony.

Topics: Abietanes; Animals; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Fibrinolytic Agents; Guinea Pigs; Methyl Ethers; Oxidation-Reduction; Patch Tests; Phenanthrenes; Plant Oils; Resins, Plant; Tars

Topics: Aged; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Preservatives, Pharmaceutical; Resins, Plant; Sports; Tars; Thiazoles

The sensitizing capacity of 7 commercial modified-colophony products of different origins (esters, polyterpene-modified, phenol-modified, resinate, polymerisate) were studied experimentally in guinea pigs by means of a modified Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) method. All products showed a weak sensitizing power, but a moderate to strong irritant effect. Within this group, the strongest response was obtained with the calcium resinate. As most of these products are used commercially in paints and lacquers, the risk of acquiring specific hypersensitivity must be considered low.

Topics: Animals; Consumer Product Safety; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; France; Germany; Guinea Pigs; Irritants; Resins, Plant; Risk; Skin; Skin Tests

Workers in a Swedish spice factory (n = 70), and in the office (n = 23) of the same company, were investigated by questionnaire regarding skin symptoms. In a 2nd part of the study, subjects reporting skin symptoms were examined and investigated by patch and prick testing. Skin symptoms were reported by 1/2 the factory workers. Pruritus and skin irritation, particularly from cinnamon powder, were common. Patch test reactions to cinnamic aldehyde were found in 11/25 factory workers, but in several cases, the nature of the reactions was difficult to evaluate. Irritant patch test reactions were seen from powders of cardamom, paprika and white pepper. On prick testing, 6/25 workers reacted to cinnamic aldehyde. The results illustrate the difficulties of patch testing with spices and indicate the need for further research and validation of methods.

Topics: 1-Propanol; Acrolein; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Patch Tests; Propanols; Resins, Plant; Spices; Surveys and Questionnaires

Skin-sensitizing rosin is present in Duraphat, a fluoride varnish used all over the world. Two cases of hypersensitivity to Duraphat are presented: a dental nurse with dermatitis of the hand and a patient with allergic contact stomatitis.

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Fluorides, Topical; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant; Sodium Fluoride; Stomatitis

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Humans; Music; Nickel; Resins, Plant; Wood

Topics: Adhesives; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Drug Eruptions; Epoxy Resins; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Resins, Plant; Tars

A peroxide of dehydroabietic acid was isolated from rosin using flash chromatography and preparative HPLC. It was identified by 1H-NMR and MS. In animal experiments, this peroxide cross-reacted with a previously identified allergen in rosin, 15-hydroperoxyabietic acid (15-HPA), despite differences in molecular weight and unsaturation. Both substances are able to react via a radical mechanism generating structurally similar molecules. In patch testing of patients, no reactions were observed to the peroxide. Low skin penetration of the peroxide could be the explanation for this. The peroxide seems of little clinical importance. The observed cross-reactivity is an indication of antigen generation via a radical mechanism. Only a few compounds that react with radical mechanisms to form antigens are described in the literature.

Topics: Abietanes; Allergens; Animals; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Diterpenes; Female; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Immunization; Lipid Peroxides; Molecular Structure; Patch Tests; Peroxides; Resins, Plant; Tars

A nonatopic female secretary developed hand dermatitis after 1 year of full-time work with telefax paper. Her dermatitis improved on sick leave and vacation and relapsed at work. Patch testing showed allergic reactions to several fragrances, balsam of Peru, colophony and neomycin. In 3 patch test sessions, her own telefax papers gave a doubtful reaction which persisted for 4 days, but it could not be determined whether the reactions were allergic or irritant. The colophony content of the telefax paper was about 1%, and it was possible that colophony in the telefax paper was responsible for the weak path test reactions. Accordingly, the contact dermatitis would have been allergic. The patient has now been relocated, does not handle telefax paper, and is symptomless. We concluded that our patient had an occupational hand contact dermatitis induced by telefax paper and possibly caused by colophony allergy.

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Middle Aged; Paper; Resins, Plant

Topics: Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Facial Dermatoses; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Music; Resins, Plant; Waxes

Baltic amber is a fossil resin deposited 36-7 million years ago and one source may be the extinct tree Pinites (Pinus) succinifer. Palaeobotanical studies of amber have an extensive literature, but the aspect of allergenicity has not been addressed before. The aim of our study was to present the results from sensitization studies with Baltic amber and to discuss these in view of possible cross-reactivity with contact allergens in colophony. It is concluded that allergens found in colophony can also be present in Baltic amber. The main resin acids were identified in an ether-soluble extract of amber. Amber suspended in petrolatum caused positive patch test reactions in patients with contact allergy to colophony. Furthermore, animals sensitized to colophony showed positive reactions to amber, but animals induced with amber did not react when challenged with amber. A use test with an amber necklace in patients with positive test reactions to amber and colophony was negative, which supports the view that amber in personal ornaments is not a clinical problem.

Topics: Animals; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Female; Fossils; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Immunization; Patch Tests; Resins, Plant