sodium-dodecyl-sulfate and Dermatitis--Contact

Topics: Chemical Phenomena; Chemistry, Physical; Dermatitis, Contact; Environmental Exposure; Humans; Irritants; Soaps; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a known irritant. It releases pro-inflammatory mediators considered pivotal in inflammatory pain. The sensory effects of SLS in the skin remain largely unexplored. In this study, SLS was evaluated for its effect on skin sensory functions.. Eight healthy subjects were recruited for this study.. Skin sites were randomized to topical SLS 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2% and vehicle for 24 h. Topical capsaicin 1% was applied for 30 min at 24 h after SLS application.. Assessments included laser Doppler imaging of local vasodilation and flare reactions, rating of spontaneous pain, assessment of primary thermal and tactile hyperalgesia, and determination of secondary dynamic and static hyperalgesia.. SLS induced significant and dose-dependent local inflammation and primary hyperalgesia to tactile and thermal stimulation at 24 h after application, with SLS 2% treatment eliciting results comparable to those observed following treatment with capsaicin 1%. SLS induced no spontaneous pain, small areas of flare, and minimal secondary hyperalgesia. The primary hyperalgesia vanished within 2-3 days, whereas the skin inflammation persisted and was only partly normalized by Day 6.. SLS induces profound perturbations of skin sensory functions lasting 2-3 days. SLS-induced inflammation may be a useful model for studying the mechanisms of inflammatory pain.

Topics: Adult; Capsaicin; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Hyperalgesia; Irritants; Male; Pain; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Sensitive skin is a subject of intense research work. However, its contours have not been defined and properly investigated so far. The aim of this work was to characterize objectively the consumers of cosmetic products, which referred skin susceptibility to several agents or conditions.. Twenty-four healthy female volunteers, mean age 38.9+/-13 years were recruited. The volunteers were fully informed about the study having previously expressed their consent, and were grouped in to I: individuals without any skin sensitivity complaint and II: individuals with self-reported sensitive skin to regular contact with household cleaning products. Sodium lauryl sulphate was used as a 'provocative' agent and it was applied on the back of the volunteers' hands, as an occlusive patch for 24 h. After the patch removal (30 min, 7 and 14 days), the variables erythema, transepidermal water loss, stratum corneum hydration and blood perfusion were measured.. No evidence of a statistical difference was found between the biomechanical behaviour of the skin of the two groups.. The results of our study did not enable us to establish a clear discrimination between sensitive and non-sensitive skin, which once again underlines the subjective nature of this condition.

Topics: Adult; Bioengineering; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Household Products; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Models, Biological; Patch Tests; Skin; Skin Absorption; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water

The pathogenesis of irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is poorly understood, and genes participating in the epidermal response to chemical irritants are only partly known. It is commonly accepted that different irritants have different mechanisms of action in the development of ICD. To define the differential molecular events induced in the epidermis by different irritants, we collected sequential biopsies ((1/2), 4, and 24 hours after a single exposure and at day 11 after repeated exposure) from human volunteers exposed to either sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or nonanoic acid (NON). Gene expression analysis using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays (representing 47,000 transcripts) revealed essentially different pathway responses (1/2)hours after exposure: NON transiently induced the IL-6 pathway as well as a number of mitogen-activated signaling cascades including extracellular signal-regulated kinase and growth factor receptor signaling, whereas SLS transiently downregulated cellular energy metabolism pathways. Differential expression of the cyclooxygenase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase 3 transcripts was confirmed immunohistochemically. After cumulative exposure, 883 genes were differentially expressed, whereas we identified 23 suggested common biomarkers for ICD. In conclusion, we bring new insights into two hitherto less well-elucidated phases of skin irritancy: the very initial as well as the late phase after single and cumulative mild exposures, respectively.

Topics: Adult; Biopsy; Cyclooxygenase 2; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Fatty Acids; Female; Gene Expression Profiling; Gene Expression Regulation; Genome-Wide Association Study; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Interleukin-6; Irritants; Male; Matrix Metalloproteinase 3; Signal Transduction; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Up-Regulation

The electrical impedance method has been used as a quantitative technique for evaluating changes in the skin during irritation within the invisible range. The purpose of this study was to apply an electrical model of skin to the interpretation of impedance data after the application of an irritant (SLS) in the skin of humans and rabbits.. Investigations were performed on 12 humans and 15 albino rabbits. Responses were evaluated by measuring electrical impedance before irritant exposure and 24 h after its removal and also by visual inspection. Using the raw impedance parameter, a novel index was developed and its value was correlated with visual scoring.. The derived impedance index showed a significant correlation with visual scores and its value decreased (P<0.05) after irritant removal even without macroscopic signs of irritation.. The proposed electrical model of skin seems to be suitable for the detection and interpretation of changes in the impedance characteristics of skin induced by SLS in rabbits and humans.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Electric Impedance; Electronics, Medical; Female; Household Products; Humans; Irritants; Male; Models, Biological; Rabbits; Severity of Illness Index; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Cold and allergy sufferers often develop irritation around the nostrils as a result of repeated and frequent rubbing of the skin site with facial tissues. This irritation is a combination of the inherent irritant properties of the tissue components (chemical irritation), and mechanical irritation from friction. Lotion-coated facial tissues are being developed to provide soothing, skin benefits, and to promote healing of this type of irritation. The objective of these studies was to evaluate the efficacy of different lotion formulations on facial tissues in preventing irritation, or aiding in the healing of irritation.. The modified forearm-controlled application test (Modified FCAT) was adapted as a means of quickly evaluating the relative skin benefits of various lotion formulations used to coat facial tissues. The test was conducted on the volar surface of the forearms of volunteer subjects. Test sites were pretreated with 24 h occlusive patches of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) to induce mild or moderate skin irritation. This was followed by repeated wiping of the lotion-coated tissues. Irritation was evaluated using visual scoring for erythema and dryness. Lotion formulation options were compared in the model. Comparisons included assessments of the type of fatty alcohol in the formulation (stearyl and cetearyl alcohol), the presence of silicone and the base formulation (mineral oil, petrolatum of a proprietary formula).. Differences in the degree of erythema and dryness were detected among various formulation options. No differences were found between formulations containing stearyl or cetearyl alcohol. Low levels of silicone produced benefits in one of two experiments. The proprietary base formula produced greater reductions in erythema following treatment of SLS-irritated skin compared with mineral oil and petrolatum bases.. The results indicated that this modification of the FCAT can be used to compare various lotion formulations for skin benefits and healing properties, and to rank qualitatively the benefits of various formulation options.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Contact; Emollients; Erythema; Fatty Alcohols; Female; Forearm; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Mineral Oil; Paper; Petrolatum; Silicones; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The effect of six skin-care formulations (SCFs) on experimentally induced cumulative irritation was studied in hairless guinea-pigs (HLGPs) and in human volunteers (HVs). The formulations were a basic cream, a carbomer cream and four modifications of the carbomer cream, containing either 10% isopropyl palmitate (IPP cream), 10% glycerol (glycerol cream), 19.5% canola oil (canola oil cream) or 0.5% (-)-alpha-bisabolol (bisabolol cream).. In HLGP, irritant dermatitis was induced with 30 min daily exposure for 4 days to 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate aq. (SLS). In HVs, irritant dermatitis was induced with 10 min daily exposure for 5+4 days (no irritation on weekends) to 3% SLS aq. on the right and 30% nonanoic acid (NON) in n-propanol on the left volar forearm. Clinical scoring was performed daily; evaporimetry (total epidermal water loss (TEWL)), hydration and colorimetry were measured at baseline (day 0) in the middle and at the end of treatment. Treatments were applied twice daily. The basic cream and the IPP cream were excluded from testing in HLGP because they were known from previous studies to be irritant in HLGP, while all formulations were known to be equally and well tolerated locally in humans.. All formulations worsened the skin irritation in HLGP: the glycerol cream the least, the canola oil cream the most, while the bisabolol cream and the carbomer cream were indistinguishable. In humans, the glycerol cream was better than 'No Treatment' after cumulative irritation with both SLS and NON. The basic cream was better tolerated in humans than was expected from previous testing in HLGPs.. In conclusion, the results from the studies in HLGPs and HVs are in agreement with regard to ranking of the SCFs. Further, the glycerol cream showed a positive treatment effect on both SLS- and NON-irritated skin in HVs.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adult; Animals; Cosmetics; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Disease Models, Animal; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hair; Humans; Male; Skin Care; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Species Specificity; Treatment Outcome

An unspecific human in vivo model of dermal pain and inflammation was developed by means of limited, localised and controlled cell damage.. Twelve participants were recruited.. Dermal microdialysis was used to deliver randomised and single blinded aqueous sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) at concentrations of 0.01%, 0.1% and 0.5% w/v to the volar forearm.. Nociceptive responses were recorded on a numerical scale, vasodilatation was assessed by laser Doppler scanning and sampled tissue fluid was analysed for PGE2 by ELISA.. Saline control and 0.01% SDS did not differ in their ability to cause vasodilatation, flare reaction or pain. In contrast, SDS (0.1 and 0.5%) evoked a significant increase of blood flow (p<0.005), a widespread reddening (p<0.01), and stinging-burning pain (p<0.005). PGE2 concentration in the dialysate did not change during 0.01% SDS perfusion (p>0.9), but increased significantly following the stimulation with 0.1% and 0.5% SDS (20 to 30-fold). No significant differences of released PGE2 levels were determined between 0.1% and 0.5% SDS stimulation (p>0.05).. We demonstrated that localised intradermal administration of SDS induces a limited pain and inflammatory response in humans. Excitation of nociceptors was accompanied by a massive PGE2 release. Employing this experimental model, the relative contribution of endogenous mediators to induce, maintain or facilitate pain and vasodilatation can be investigated.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinoprostone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Humans; Male; Microdialysis; Osmolar Concentration; Pain; Regional Blood Flow; Single-Blind Method; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Investigations of pruritogenic substances in humans have involved intradermal injections in normal skin; itching of inflamed skin has been little studied.. To develop an itch model with provocation of itch in experimentally inflamed skin as well as in normal skin, using subjects as self-controls.. In 32 non-atopic volunteers aged 21-30 years, the skin of five selected test sites on one volar forearm was pretreated for 24 h with large Finn chambers containing 1% sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) used as a standard contact irritant to induce inflammation. Twenty microlitres of different pruritogenic substances [histamine, substance P, neurokinin A, neurokinin B, trypsin, platelet-activating factor (PAF) and serotonin] and saline as control were injected intradermally into the inflamed test sites and in corresponding non-treated sites on the opposite forearm. The test individuals scored itch intensity on a visual analogue scale for 20 min, and weal area was then measured. :. Histamine and substance P induced itch in both normal and inflamed skin compared with a saline reference. Neurokinin A, trypsin, PAF and serotonin only elicited itch in normal skin, and neurokinin B neither elicited itch in normal skin nor in inflamed skin. Itch was induced in normal and SLS-inflamed skin to a similar magnitude. However, weal area after histamine was significantly (P < 0.001) larger in inflamed skin when compared with normal skin.. Histamine and substance P elicited itch to the same degree in normal skin and inflamed skin pretreated with SLS despite a stronger weal response in inflamed skin. Mediators present in inflamed skin did not potentiate itch, a c-fibre-mediated neuronal response. The weal reaction is based on enhanced vascular permeability (protein extravasation). A greater skin perfusion in inflamed skin may therefore have increased the weal size. We propose an experimental model in humans for testing of itch involving both normal and inflamed skin. The model has the potential for use in evaluating new topical and systemic treatments of itch.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Double-Blind Method; Edema; Erythema; Female; Histamine; Humans; Injections, Intradermal; Male; Neuropeptides; Pain; Pain Measurement; Pruritus; Severity of Illness Index; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Moisturizers are widely used to treat irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). Their use is, however, not well-documented and standardized models for testing skin care products are needed to acquire documentation of their efficacy. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of 6 commonly-used moisturizers on the recovery of irritated human skin. No commercial interests were involved in the study. 36 healthy volunteers had patch tests with SLS 0.5% applied on their forearms/upper arms for 24 h. After irritation of the skin, all volunteers had a moisturizer applied on one forearm/upper arm, respectively, 3 x daily for the following 5 days. The other forearm/upper arm served as an untreated control. Each moisturizer was tested on 12 volunteers and each volunteer tested 2 moisturizers at the same time. Evaluation was done on days 1, 3 and 8 by transepidermal water loss, electrical capacitance, laser Doppler flowmetry, DermaSpectrometry and clinical scoring. All 6 moisturizers were found to accelerate regeneration of the skin barrier function when compared to irritated non-treated skin. The most lipid-rich moisturizers improved barrier restoration more rapidly than the less lipid-rich moisturizers. We suggest this experimental model for further moisturizer efficacy testing.

Topics: Dermatitis, Contact; Electric Conductivity; Emollients; Erythema; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Regional Blood Flow; Severity of Illness Index; Single-Blind Method; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Topical corticoids are used to treat irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) in humans. However, their clinical efficacy remains sub judice. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of low- and medium-potency corticosteroids on irritant dermatitis.. We induced an acute ICD via open application of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) on the hands of subjects. The dorsal side of hands was irritated with 10% SLS five times in one day. Once on day 1 and twice daily on days 2-5, 1% hydrocortisone, 0.1% betamethasone-17-valerate and vehicle cream (petrolatum) were applied subsequently. Visual grading, bioengineering techniques and squamometry were used to quantify skin response.. Corticosteroids were found ineffective in treating the surfactant-induced irritant dermatitis when compared with the vehicle and with the untreated control.. The counterintuitive result (in a relatively realistic and robust model) should be interpreted with caution until verified with other irritants of varying physicochemical properties.

Topics: Adult; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Betamethasone Valerate; Dermatitis, Contact; Double-Blind Method; Hand; Humans; Hydrocortisone; Middle Aged; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Treatment Failure

Patients with atopic skin show a defective barrier function both in rough and in clinically normal skin, with an increasing risk of developing contact dermatitis. Moisturizing creams are often used in the treatment of dry skin. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of treatment with a urea-containing moisturizer on the barrier properties of atopic skin. Fifteen patients with atopic dermatitis treated one of their forearms twice daily for 20 days with a moisturizing cream. Skin capacitance and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were measured at the start of the study and after 10 and 20 days. On day 21 the skin was exposed to sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and on day 22 the irritant reaction was measured non-invasively. Skin capacitance was significantly increased by the treatment, indicating increased skin hydration. The water barrier function, as reflected by TEWL values, tended to improve (P = 0.07), and the skin susceptibility to SLS was significantly reduced, as measured by TEWL and superficial skin blood flow (P < 0.05). Thus, it seems that certain moisturizers could improve skin barrier function in atopics and reduce skin susceptibility to irritants. The mechanism and the clinical relevance need further investigation.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Emollients; Female; Galvanic Skin Response; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Single-Blind Method; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Alpha hydroxyacids (AHAs) are used to enhance stratum corneum desquamation and improve skin appearance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether some AHAs improve skin barrier function and prevent skin irritation. Eleven healthy subjects (aged 28 +/- 6 years, mean +/- SD) entered the study. Six test sites of 8 x 5 cm (four different AHAs, vehicle only (VE) and untreated control (UNT) were selected and randomly rotated on the volar arm and forearm. The four different AHAs at 8% concentration in base cream were glycolic acid (GA), lactic acid, tartaric acid (TA) and gluconolactone (GLU). The products were applied twice a day for 4 weeks (2 mg/cm2). At week 4, a 5% sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) challenge patch test was performed under occlusion for 6 h (HillTop chamber, 18 mm wide) on each site. Barrier function and skin irritation were evaluated by means of evaporimetry (Servomed EP-1) and chromametry (a* value, Minolta CR200) weekly, and at 0, 24 and 48 h after SLS patch removal. No significant differences in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and erythema were observed between the four AHAs at week 4. After SLS challenge, GLU- and TA-treated sites resulted in significantly lower TEWL compared with VE, UNT (P < 0.01) and GA (P < 0.05) both at 24 and 48 h. Similarly, a* values were significantly reduced after irritation in GLU- and TA-treated sites. This study shows that AHAs can modulate stratum corneum barrier function and prevent skin irritation; the effect is not equal for all AHAs, being more marked for the molecules characterized by antioxidant properties.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Double-Blind Method; Epidermis; Gluconates; Glycolates; Humans; Hydroxy Acids; Lactic Acid; Lactones; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Tartrates; Water Loss, Insensible

Moisturizers are used daily by many people to alleviate symptoms of dry skin. All of them contain lipids. It has been suggested that topically applied lipids may interfere with the structure and function of the permeability barrier. The influence of a single application of nine different lipids on normal skin and skin irritated by sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) was studied in 21 healthy subjects. Parameters assessed were visible signs of irritation, and objectively measured cutaneous blood flow and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The substances tested were hydrocortisone, petrolatum, fish oil, borage oil, sunflower seed oil, canola oil, shea butter, and fractions of unsaponifiable lipids from canola oil and shea butter. Water was included as a control. On normal skin, no significant differences in the effects of the test substances were found, whereas significant differences were observed when they were applied to SLS-irritated skin. The visible signs of SLS-induced irritation were significantly less pronounced after treatment with the sterol-enriched fraction from canola oil than after treatment with water. This fraction, and hydrocortisone, reduced cutaneous blood flow. Furthermore, application of hydrocortisone, canola oil, and its sterol-enriched fraction, resulted in significantly lower TEWL than with water. The other lipids had no effect on the degree of irritation. In conclusion, lipids commonly used in moisturizers may reduce skin reactions to irritants. Previous studies have shown that, in barrier perturbed skin, the synthesis of sterols is increased. The observed effects of canola oil and its fraction of unsaponifiable lipids on SLS-induced irritation suggest the possibility that they assisted the skin in supplying the damaged barrier with adequate lipids.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Cricetinae; Dermatitis, Contact; Emollients; Fatty Acids; Female; Humans; Hydrocortisone; Male; Middle Aged; Oils; Regional Blood Flow; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

We have explored the use of measurements of electrical impedance to discriminate between the effects of different irritant substances upon the skin, and have studied the relationships between impedance and histopathological change. Three compounds with different chemical profiles were tested on volunteers: sodium lauryl sulphate, benzalkonium chloride and nonanoic acid. The concentrations selected were such that each irritant produced responses of a similar order, as judged by visual scores. The magnitude and phase of electrical impedance were measured and, for comparison, also the transepidermal water loss. Four physically distinct aspects (indices) were devised from the impedance data, and the values obtained were statistically analysed. The three irritants produced different effects, giving distinctive impedance patterns. These were also found to be reflected by three different types of histopathological skin response. Our results suggest that the indices can be used to classify irritant contact reactions, which it is difficult or impossible to achieve by other non-invasive techniques.

Topics: Adult; Benzalkonium Compounds; Dermatitis, Contact; Fatty Acids; Female; Galvanic Skin Response; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

Skin barrier function was studied after use of occlusive gloves on normal and compromised skin. 2 studies were performed (Study A and B), and the effects were evaluated by non-invasive methods. Participants in the studies were instructed to wear an occlusive glove on one hand, while the other hand served as control. The gloves used were hypoallergenic, non-latex. Study A: 20 volunteers wore a glove on normal skin 6 h/day for 3 days. Study B: 20 volunteers wore a glove on sodium lauryl sulfate(SLS)-compromised skin 6 h/day for 3 days. Skin barrier function was evaluated by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) (Evaporimeter), skin hydration by electrical capacitance (Corneometer) and inflammation was evaluated by erythema index (DermaSpectrometer).. Study A. Glove occlusion on normal skin 6 h/day for 3 days caused no significant influence on the water barrier function. Study B: Glove occlusion on SLS-compromised skin for the same period of time had a significantly negative effect on the water barrier function. It is concluded that occlusion may be an additional factor in the pathogenesis of cumulative irritant contact dermatitis.

Topics: Adult; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Electric Conductivity; Epidermis; Female; Gloves, Protective; Humans; Middle Aged; Permeability; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

Topical corticosteroids are frequently used in the treatment of irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). The efficacy of this treatment has, however, not been thoroughly established, and experimental studies on the topic have provided conflicting results. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of potent topical corticosteroids on experimentally-induced irritant skin reactions in a double-blind, vehicle-controlled study. 16 healthy volunteers had sodium lauryl sulfate patch tests symmetrically applied to the upper arms. After removal of patch tests, a potent topical corticosteroid (betamethasone-17-valerate) was applied to the irritant skin reaction on one arm, while the corresponding vehicle was applied to the irritant skin reaction on the opposite arm 2x daily for 7 days. Reactions were evaluated by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and erythema. After 7 days, statistically significant lower values of TEWL and erythema were found in corticosteroid-treated, compared to the vehicle-treated, skin reactions. The results indicate that topical corticosteroids improve healing of ICD.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adult; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Double-Blind Method; Eczema; Erythema; Female; Glucocorticoids; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin Absorption; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Treatment Outcome; Water Loss, Insensible

We evaluated the effect of subclinical irritation on the cutaneous reaction elicited by cumulative short-term (30-min) application of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and assigning visual scores. 11 healthy adult volunteers, free of skin disease and with no history of atopic dermatitis, were treated with SLS solution (1%, 2%, 5%, 7.5%). On a Monday, we applied 80 microliters of 1% SLS solution and deionized water (control), using large aluminium chambers with filter paper discs, for 30 min. We measured TEWL values 2 x before and after patch application of control and 1% SLS solution, and then applied 80 microliters of SLS solution (2%, 5%, 7.5%) using filter paper discs. From Tuesday to Friday, we applied 80 microliters of each solution, using filter paper discs, and measured TEWL before and after open application of test solutions. Compared with each corresponding group, TEWL values of SLS patch groups (S-2.0, S-5.0, S-7.5) were higher than those of water patch groups (W-2.0, W-5.0, W-7.5), respectively. TEWL values of each groups increased stepwise and the final (hour 97) TEWL values were higher than those of baseline (hour 0) TEWL. The mean visual scores of the vehicle control were lower than those of other test groups, but there were no statistically significant differences in visual scores between each test group. These findings suggested that impaired skin barrier function, elicited by subclinical irritation from short-duration contact with some irritants, might augment the cumulative irritant contact dermatitis caused by repeated open exposure to other surfactants.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Chronic Disease; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Water Loss, Insensible

The effects of softened fabrics on the skin were evaluated by a forearm wet and dry test, under conditions simulating real-life skin contact with fabrics. 15 volunteers with sensitive skin according to dermatological assessment and their own recognition entered a double-blind 12 day, 3 sessions per day, forearm wetting and drying test, using cotton fabrics washed with a powder detergent and softened or not with a liquid fabric conditioner. To simulate conditions of skin damage, a dilute solution of sodium lauryl sulfate was applied under patch to the forearm before the start of the study. Skin effects were evaluated by visual grading (redness, dryness and smoothness), by noninvasive skin stripping and measuring of Chroma C* (squamometry), and by instrumental measurements (capacitance, transepidermal water loss, and colorimetry). Both the unsoftened and softened fabrics induced no deleterious effects on control or previously irritated skin. Furthermore, a mild beneficial effect was observed with the softened fabrics, particularly on previously irritated skin. The study findings suggest that softened fabrics may exert a reduced frictional effect on the skin.

Topics: Adult; Colorimetry; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Detergents; Double-Blind Method; Epidermis; Erythema; Gossypium; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Laundering; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Textiles; Water Loss, Insensible

Normal human skin was exposed to two different detergents, sodium lauryl sulphate in distilled water and non-anoic acid in isopropanol at different concentrations. The detergents were applied under occlusion in epicutaneous tests for 24 h and biopsies were taken at 24 or 48 h. Frozen sections were labelled with monoclonal antibodies against CD1a, CD3 and ICAM-1. The evaluation of the labelled sections showed that there were differential effects on the expression of ICAM-1 and CD1a+ cells in epidermis. After non-anoic acid application ICAM-reactivity could not be detected and there was a decrease of staining for CD1a after exposure to 80% non-anoic acid. Sodium lauryl sulphate treatment, however, induced ICAM-1 expression on keratinocytes and had minor effects on the number of CD1a+ cells. ICAM-1 expression was also detected in normal epidermis in 3 of 9 unexposed control biopsies and after occlusion with the vehicles distilled water and isopropanol. An increased amount of CD3+ cells was found in the skin exposed to both detergents. The results show that there are dose and time dependent variations in the epidermal response to irritants which might influence the immunological events taken place in the epidermis.

Topics: Adult; Antigens, CD; Cell Adhesion Molecules; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Epidermis; Fatty Acids; Female; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Irritants; Keratinocytes; Male; Middle Aged; Models, Biological; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), capacitance, pH, blood flow and color reflectance were evaluated for quantifying the irritant response of vulvar and forearm skin to 3% sodium lauryl sulfate in 9 healthy premenopausal women. TEWL, capacitance, pH, blood flow, and all parameters of color reflectance changed significantly in forearm irritant dermatitis. In vulvar irritant dermatitis, however, significant changes were observed only for blood flow and the color reflectance parameters a* and b*. Using the combination of TEWL, capacitance and blood flow, forearm irritant dermatitis was detected with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 100%. In this study, the best combination of parameters to detect vulvar irritant dermatitis was pH, blood flow, a* and b*, which had a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 75%. It is concluded that available bioengineering techniques are less suitable to quantify irritant dermatitis in the vulva than in the forearm.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Electric Conductivity; Female; Forearm; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Irritants; Sensitivity and Specificity; Skin; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Vulva; Water Loss, Insensible

Topics: Adult; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Disease Susceptibility; Female; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Irritants; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Pathophysiological components of irritant contact dermatitis caused by 3 chemically-different irritants were investigated. 20 healthy volunteers were patch tested with sodium lauryl sulphate, nonanoic acid and hydrochloric acid on the flexor side of the upper arm. The skin response was evaluated after 24, 48 and 96 h by visual scoring and measured by the following bioengineering methods: transepidermal water loss measurement, electrical conductance for measurement of skin hydration, laser Doppler flowmetry for measurement of cutaneous blood flow and 20 MHz ultrasound A-scan for measurement of skin thickness. In spite of homogeneous inflammatory responses, significant differences in the severity of the injury to the skin barrier function caused by the different irritants were found. Also significant differences between irritants were found in the time course of development of maximum irritant reactions. Bioengineering methods indicating inflammatory responses (measurement of blood flow and skin thickness) were helpful in quantifying the irritant response in general, while bioengineering methods indicating epidermal damage (measurement of TEWL and electrical conductance) were helpful in classifying the individual irritants.

Topics: Adult; Arm; Dermatitis, Contact; Fatty Acids; Female; Galvanic Skin Response; Humans; Hydrochloric Acid; Irritants; Male; Patch Tests; Sex Characteristics; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Ultrasonography; Water Loss, Insensible

The efficacy of topically applied corticosteroid formulations of different potencies on irritant skin reactions was assessed in human beings. Chronic irritant contact dermatitis was produced by repeated application of a low-molarity sodium lauryl sulfate solution. Neither corticoid nor vehicle inhibited visible response to the irritant. Barrier function, as measured by transepidermal water loss, was impaired. The corticoid formulations and the vehicles did not significantly influence barrier function. These data raise the question of the value of certain topical corticoids and vehicles in chronic irritant contact dermatitis when the irritant is not removed.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Contact; Double-Blind Method; Drug Evaluation; Erythema; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Pharmaceutical Vehicles; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

A marked variation in the concentration of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) used for irritant patch testing is found in the literature, but is hitherto unexplained. In the present study, 2 different qualities of SLS were tested clinically on healthy volunteers. The skin responses were evaluated by visual scoring as well as by non-invasive measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), blood flow and oedema. A significant difference in the skin response to the 2 qualities was found both clinically and by non-invasive methods used for quantitation. 5 different qualities of SLS were investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Marked discrepancies in the quantity of C12 carbon chains in the products were found, offering an explanation for the proven difference in the clinical response. It is concluded that only SLS qualities of high purity should be used for irritant patch testing, and that both the quality and the purity of SLS should be stated.

Topics: Adult; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

To investigate the effect of grenz rays on irritant contact reactions, eleven healthy volunteers were studied. They were given 3 Gy of grenz rays, once a week for 3 weeks, to a defined area of the back. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, serial dilution sodium lauryl sulphate patch tests were applied both on the grenz ray treated area and on the untreated control skin. Biopsy specimens were taken from the irritant reactions both from the grenz ray treated area and from the control area and different cell populations in dermis and epidermis were identified by monoclonal antibodies (Leu 2, 3, 4, 7, Leu M1, B1, OKT6). In the grenz ray treated epidermis there was a pronounced reduction of OKT6-positive cells but the composition of the dermal cellular infiltrate did not differ between control and grenz ray treated skin. The assessment of the patch test reactions did reveal a tendency towards weaker reactions in the grenz ray pre-treated skin but this difference was not statistically significant. It is concluded that grenz rays do not have a marked effect on the elicitation of irritant reactions.

Topics: Adult; Antibodies, Monoclonal; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Immunochemistry; Male; Middle Aged; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

In this double-blind study, the intensity and duration of the inflammatory response induced by various concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) solution on the forearms of 36 normal male volunteers was dependent upon the concentration and number of applications of SLS. One 24-h application of the 4% or 5% aqueous SLS solution or two successive 24-h applications of the 2% or 3% SLS solutions were sufficient to cause an inflammatory response in the epidermis. Such response makes the skin more permeable for the testing of topical formulations of compounds to document their propensity to irritate.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Clinical Trials as Topic; Dermatitis, Contact; Double-Blind Method; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Random Allocation; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Solutions; Water

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a minor non-psychoactive cannabinoid present in

Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Cannabidiol; Cannabinoids; Cells, Cultured; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatologic Agents; Female; Gene Expression Regulation; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Inflammation; Male; Models, Biological; Propionibacteriaceae; Saccharomyces cerevisiae; Skin; Skin Aging; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Tetradecanoylphorbol Acetate; Tissue Array Analysis; Ultraviolet Rays

To elucidate the roles of epidermal keratinocytes in the toxicological outcomes of chemically induced contact dermatitis, genome-scale transcriptional analyses were performed using normal human keratinocytes (NHKCs) treated with 10 μM sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or 5 μM urushiol. In Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses, SLS- and urushiol-induced upregulated DEGs are commonly associated with the regulation of pro-inflammatory responses and epidermal differentiation processes in NHKCs whereas cellular protein metabolic process was also identified as a commonly downregulated DEG signature. Among the downregulated DEGs, CXCL14 was investigated as a potential biomarker for a new in vitro skin sensitization test using OECD TG429 reference chemicals. CXCL14 was significantly downregulated in NHKCs in response to 62.5% of the OECD TG429 sensitizers in a concentration-dependent manner. When the sensitizer-induced upregulation of chemokine CXCL8 was included in the analysis, 87.5% of the OECD TG429 reference sensitizing chemicals significantly induced either CXCL8 upregulation or CXCL14 downregulation in NHKCs. Only one OECD TG429 reference non-sensitizer changed the constitutive CXCL14 expression in NHKCs whereas five out of six non-sensitizers altered CXCL8 production. The reference irritating non-sensitizer SLS caused a false-positive outcome. The downregulation of constitutively expressed CXCL14 was regulated by both the MAPK/ERK and JAK3/STAT6 pathways in NHKCs. CXCL14 can be used as a mechanism-based biomarker in the development of in vitro skin sensitization tests and may help improve the distinction between allergenic sensitizers and non-sensitizers.

Topics: Biomarkers; Blotting, Western; Catechols; Cells, Cultured; Chemokines, CXC; Dermatitis, Contact; Down-Regulation; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Keratinocytes; Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Cleaning products such as soaps, shampoos, and detergents are comprised mainly of surfactants, agents known to cause dermatitis and cutaneous hypersensitivity characterized by itching, stinging, and burning of the skin and scalp. However, the mechanisms underlying surfactant-induced cutaneous hypersensitivity remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of cutaneous hypersensitivity in mice treated with the detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Repeated SDS application to the skin induced inflammation, xeroderma, and elongation of peripheral nerves into the epidermis. The number of neurons immunopositive for c-Fos, a well known marker of neural activity, was substantially higher (+441%) in spinal dorsal horn (SDH) lamina I-II (but not lamina III-VI) of SDS-treated mice compared to vehicle-treated mice. In vivo extracellular recording revealed enhanced spontaneous (+64%) and non-noxious mechanical stimulation-evoked firing (+139%) of SDH lamina I-II neurons in SDS-treated mice, and stimulation-evoked neuronal firing was sustained (+5333%) even after stimulation. The number of GFAP-positive (activated) astrocytes, but not Iba1-positive microglia, was also elevated (+137%) in SDH lamina I-II of SDS-treated mice compared to vehicle-treated mice. Peripheral nerve elongation and hyperexcitability of afferent or SDH neurons, possible associated with the activation of spinal astrocytes, may underlie cutaneous hypersensitivity induced by surfactants.

Topics: Animals; Astrocytes; Dermatitis, Contact; Disease Models, Animal; Epidermis; Male; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Peripheral Nerves; Physical Stimulation; Posterior Horn Cells; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Histamine; Histidine Decarboxylase; Male; Mice, Inbred ICR; Mice, Knockout; Nerve Fibers; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Adult; Case-Control Studies; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Young Adult

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within genes involved in inflammation, skin barrier integrity, signaling/pattern recognition, and antioxidant defense with irritant susceptibility in a group of health care workers.. The 536 volunteer subjects were genotyped for selected SNPs and patch tested with three model irritants: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and benzalkonium chloride (BKC). Genotyping was performed on genomic DNA using Illumina Goldengate custom panels.. The ACACB (rs2268387, rs16934132, rs2284685), NTRK2 (rs10868231), NTRK3 (rs1347424), IL22 (rs1179251), PLAU (rs2227564), EGFR (rs6593202), and FGF2 (rs308439) SNPs showed an association with skin response to tested irritants in different genetic models (all at P < 0.001). Functional annotations identified two SNPs in PLAU (rs2227564) and ACACB (rs2284685) genes with a potential impact on gene regulation. In addition, EGF (rs10029654), EGFR (rs12718939), CXCL12 (rs197452), and VCAM1 (rs3917018) genes showed an association with hand dermatitis (P < 0.005).. The results demonstrate that genetic variations in genes related to inflammation and skin homeostasis can influence responses to irritants and may explain inter-individual variation in the development of subsequent contact dermatitis.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Benzalkonium Compounds; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Genotype; Health Personnel; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Young Adult

China has a great variety of geographical and climatic conditions, and several cultural differences exist within the country; thus, understanding the regional and seasonal differences that cause skin sensitivities in this country is important.. The aim of this study was to assess skin sensitivity of women from six cities in China and from South Korea during the winter and summer seasons to aid the development of suitable and effective dermatological products.. This multicentre study included 754 healthy female volunteers, and was conducted in the winter (between January and March) and summer (between June and July) of 2011. Patch tests were performed using 0.5% sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) aqueous solution and 0.15% retinol in 1,3-butylene glycol on the back of the volunteers. Simultaneously, stinging tests were performed on their cheeks by using 5% lactic acid solution and 0.001% capsaicin solution, each in a negative control vehicle (distilled water and 10% ethanol solution, respectively).. The patch test results showed that the subjects in Beijing and Shenyang were more sensitive to SLS, retinol and lactic acid in the winter than were those in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Wuhan, Chengdu and South Korea. The stinging test results revealed that the subjects in Beijing were more neurosensitive to lactic acid in the winter; however, during the same season, the subjects from Shanghai and Guangzhou were significantly more neurosensitive to capsaicin.. Our observations indicate that skin sensitivity differs considerably between women from different parts of China and South Korea. We recommend that these differences be considered during the development of cosmetic products in these countries.

Topics: Adult; Capsaicin; China; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Lactic Acid; Pain; Patch Tests; Republic of Korea; Seasons; Sensory System Agents; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Vitamin A; Vitamins; Young Adult

The aim of the study was to disclose interactions between epidermal barrier, skin irritation and sensitization in healthy and diseased skin. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum hydration (SCH) were assessed in adult patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), rosacea and healthy controls. A 4-h patch test with seven concentrations of sodium lauryl sulphate was performed to determine the irritant threshold (IT). Contact sensitization pattern was revealed by patch testing with European baseline series. Subjects with a lower IT had higher TEWL values and lower SCH. Subjects with positive allergic reactions had significantly lower IT. In AD, epidermal barrier deterioration was detected on both volar forearm and nasolabial fold, while in rosacea, impeded skin physiology parameters were observed on the facial skin only, suggesting that barrier impediment is restricted to the face in rosacea, in contrast with AD where the abnormal skin physiology is generalized.

Topics: Adult; Case-Control Studies; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Permeability; Rosacea; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Animal tests have been used to characterize the potential of chemicals to produce allergic contact dermatitis, but this approach is increasingly a matter of public and political concern. Our aim was to develop and validate an alternative in vitro test that can identify contact allergens.. We developed a targeted microarray containing oligonucleotide probes for 66 immune-relevant genes and analyzed gene expression in monocyte-derived dendritic cells (Mo-DCs) treated with 1 irritant (SDS) and 2 prominent contact allergens, nickel and Bandrowski's base (BB), which is the oxidation product of the most important hair dye allergen, p-phenylenediamine.. Comparing RNA amounts in chemical-treated and solvent-treated cells, we identified significant changes in the expression of 21 genes and 10 genes after exposure of immature DCs (iDCs) to nickel and BB, respectively, but not after exposure to SDS. Eight genes were differentially expressed after application of both nickel and BB. Real-time PCR was used to confirm the results for selected genes.. We propose a microarray-based in vitro test that might allow the identification of contact allergens. Independently from donor variability, several immune-relevant genes were up- or downregulated after the application of the tested sensitizers to iDCs, therefore presenting potential marker genes. While reducing the number of laboratory animals used, this test would also enable reliable analysis of chemicals using a human system.

Topics: Allergens; Cells, Cultured; Dendritic Cells; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Flow Cytometry; Gene Expression Profiling; Hair Dyes; Humans; Irritants; Nickel; Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis; Phenylenediamines; Polymerase Chain Reaction; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Covalent modification of skin proteins by electrophiles is a key event in the induction of skin sensitisation but not skin irritation although the exact nature of the binding mechanisms has not been determined empirically for the vast majority of sensitisers. It is also unknown whether immunologically relevant protein targets exist in the skin contributing to effecting skin sensitisation. To determine the haptenation mechanism(s) and spectra of amino acid reactivity in an intact protein for two sensitisers expected to react by different mechanisms, human serum albumin (HSA) was chosen as a model protein. The aim of this work was also to verify for selected non-sensitisers and irritants that no protein haptenation occurs even under forcing conditions. HSA was incubated with chemicals and the resulting complexes were digested with trypsin and analysed deploying matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry, reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography and nano-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. The data confirmed that different residues (lysine, cysteine, histidine and tyrosine) are covalently modified in a highly selective and differential manner by the sensitisers 2,4-dinitro-1-chlorobenzene and phenyl salicylate. Additionally, non-sensitisers 2,4-dichloro-1-nitrobenzene, butyl paraben and benzaldehyde and irritants benzalkonium chloride and sodium dodecyl sulphate did not covalently modify HSA under any conditions. The data indicate that covalent haptenation is a prerequisite of skin sensitisation but not irritation. The data also suggest that protein modifications are targeted to certain amino acids residing in chemical microenvironments conducive to reactivity within an intact protein. Deriving such information is relevant to our understanding of antigen formation in the immunobiology of skin sensitisation and in the development of in vitro protein haptenation assays.

Topics: Acetylation; Benzaldehydes; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Haptens; Hydrolysis; Irritants; Mass Spectrometry; Models, Molecular; Molecular Weight; Nitrobenzenes; Parabens; Peptide Mapping; Salicylates; Serum Albumin; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Trypsin

Langerhans cells (LC) are key mediators of contact allergenicity in the skin. However, no in vitro methods exist which are based on the activation process of LC to predict the sensitization potential of chemicals. In this study, we have evaluated the performances of MUTZ-3, a cytokine-dependent human monocytic cell line, in its response to sensitizers. First, we compared undifferentiated MUTZ-3 cells with several standard human cells such as THP-1, KG-1, HL-60, K-562, and U-937 in their response to the strong sensitizer DNCB and the irritant SDS by monitoring the expression levels of HLA-DR, CD54, and CD86 by flow cytometry. Only MUTZ-3 and THP-1 cells show a strong and specific response to sensitizer, while other cell lines showed very variable responses. Then, we tested MUTZ-3 cells against a wider panel of sensitizers and irritants on a broader spectrum of cell surface markers (HLA-DR, CD40, CD54, CD80, CD86, B7-H1, B7-H2, B7-DC). Of these markers, CD86 proved to be the most reliable since it detected all sensitizers, including benzocaine, a classical false negative in local lymph node assay (LLNA) but not irritants. We confirmed the MUTZ-3 response to DNCB by real-time PCR analysis. Taken together, our data suggest that undifferentiated MUTZ-3 cells may represent a valuable in vitro model for the screening of potential sensitizers.

Topics: Adult; Antigens, Surface; B7-1 Antigen; B7-2 Antigen; CD40 Antigens; Cell Differentiation; Cell Line, Tumor; Culture Media; Cytokines; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Flow Cytometry; HLA-DR Antigens; Humans; Inducible T-Cell Co-Stimulator Ligand; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Irritants; Male; Predictive Value of Tests; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Up-Regulation

Skin irritability after a brief exposure to the model skin irritant, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), is known to vary considerably between individuals. A difference in the skin barrier to SLS may contribute to this variation. To date, no human in vivo data have been available on SLS penetration into the skin.. We studied whether the SLS penetration rate into the stratum corneum (SC) is related to impairment of the water barrier function and inflammation of the skin.. The penetration of SLS into the SC was assessed using a noninvasive tape-stripping procedure in 20 volunteers after a 4-h exposure to 1% SLS. Additionally, the effect of a 24-h exposure to 1% SLS on the skin water barrier function was assessed by measuring the transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The accompanying inflammation was quantified by measuring erythema.. The mean +/- SD diffusivity of SLS (D) and the SLS permeability coefficient (Kp) were 1.4 +/- 0.6 x 10(-8) cm2 h(-1) and 1.5 +/- 0.7 x 10(-3) cm h(-1), respectively. A multiple regression analysis showed that the baseline TEWL, SC thickness and SLS penetration parameters K (SC/water partition coefficient) and D clearly influenced the increase in TEWL after the 24-h irritation test (explained variance: r2 = 0.80). Change in erythema was mainly influenced by SC thickness.. We found that variation in the barrier impairment and inflammation of human skin depends on the SLS penetration rate, which was mainly determined by SC thickness.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Disease Susceptibility; Erythema; Female; Humans; Male; Severity of Illness Index; Skin; Skin Absorption; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

There is evidence that a higher skin susceptibility may induce nonspecific erythematous or weak positive reactions to contact allergens in patch testing.. To evaluate whether simultaneous application of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) along with diagnostic patch tests with contact allergens can provide information regarding skin irritability which may help to discriminate allergic from nonspecific irritant reactions to contact allergens.. Between July 2001 and June 2003, this prospective study collected patch test data of 5971 patients from 19 centres in Germany and Austria in the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK). In addition to contact allergens (standard series and eight known 'problematic' allergens with a low reaction index and a high positivity ratio: 1,3-diphenylguanidine, amerchol L-101, benzalkonium chloride, benzoyl peroxide, cocamidopropyl betaine, octyl gallate, phenyl mercuric acetate and propylene glycol), patches with SLS 0.5% and 0.25% aq. were applied. Reactions to the allergens and to SLS were analysed at the IVDK data centre. The association between an erythematous or positive reaction to a certain allergen and an irritant reaction to SLS was assessed with logistic regression analysis, at the same time controlling for the influence of age and sex.. Of the 29 allergens of the standard series, 23 and 21 gave a higher percentage of nonspecific erythematous reactions in patients with an irritant reaction to 0.25% and 0.5% SLS, respectively, in comparison with SLS-negative patients. All eight 'problematic' allergens gave an increased percentage of nonspecific erythematous reactions. Similarly, 22 and 21 allergens of the standard series gave a higher percentage of positive allergic reactions in patients with an irritant reaction to 0.25% and 0.5% SLS, respectively, and seven of the eight 'problematic' allergens gave a higher percentage of positive allergic reactions (exception: octyl gallate). For most allergens, the markers of skin reaction (reaction index and positivity ratio) were worse in SLS-positive patients. Differences were more pronounced when testing with SLS 0.25% than with SLS 0.5%.. Because there is a convincing association between skin irritability (evaluated by SLS test) and the degree of skin reaction to contact allergens, the SLS test may help in deciding whether a doubtful erythematous or weakly 'positive' skin reaction should be interpreted as allergic or irritant.

Topics: Adult; Allergens; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Diagnosis, Differential; Diagnostic Errors; Erythema; Female; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Predictive Value of Tests; Prospective Studies; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Case-Control Studies; Catechols; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Dermatitis, Toxicodendron; Humans; Immunosuppressive Agents; Ointments; Pilot Projects; Single-Blind Method; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Tacrolimus; Toxicodendron

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a new noninvasive imaging technique. In this study, it was used for the investigation of contact dermatitis and psoriasis. In these common inflammatory skin diseases the value of OCT for quantification and monitoring of the changes in comparison with other bioengineering methods was evaluated. Repeated measurements were performed in healthy volunteers after experimental induction of irritant contact dermatitis and in patients with psoriasis. In the OCT images, the thickness of the epidermis and the signal attenuation coefficient in the upper dermis were evaluated. The changes were compared with measurements of transepidermal water loss, hydration, skin colour and surface roughness, and with high-frequency ultrasound measurements. In irritant dermatitis and psoriasis, thickening of the epidermis was detected and could be monitored over time. The light scattering in the upper dermis was lower than in healthy skin. This was interpreted to be due to the inflammation and oedema, leading to a less-dense arrangement of the collagen fibres. The changes in the OCT images did not significantly correlate with the changes shown by the other methods. OCT is an interesting tool for investigation of inflammatory skin diseases. It is a simple method for determination of epidermal thickness and therefore provides, in addition to other methods, information on the severity of the disease and on treatment effects.

Topics: Case-Control Studies; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Irritants; Psoriasis; Scattering, Radiation; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Tomography, Optical Coherence; Ultrasonography

Sulphur mineral waters may have anti-inflammatory effects on human skin. We evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of Leopoldine spa water, a salso-sulphate water (Table 1), on human skin tested with sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).. Ten healthy, Caucasian volunteers 28-53 years old were enrolled in this study. SLS was tested on the right arm, in two concentrations (0.5% and 1%) dissolved in both double-distilled nonpyrogenic water and Leopoldine spa water in four separate test tubes; 0.02 mL of each solution was applied via the testing apparatus (Vand der Bend chambers, four squares measuring 1 x 1 cm), which was fixed and remained in contact with the skin surface. The anti-inflammatory effect was measured via the variations of redness (chromometry, parameter a*), using a Minolta CR 200 chromometer.. At base condition the values of a* of the areas that were tested ranged from 7.11 to 9.30 with a mean of 7.97. In regard to the reaction caused by SLS dissolved in double-distilled water, the values of a* ranged from 8.98 to 9.53, mean 9.24, for 0.5% SLS and from 12.81 to 14.33, mean 13.59, for 1% SLS. The a* values for the cutaneous reaction caused by SLS dissolved in Leopoldine spa water ranged from 7.22 to 9.60 (mean 8.20) for 0.5% SLS and from 10.8 to 12.36 (mean 11.68) for the 1% SLS.. These data show the potential anti-inflammatory effects of Leopoldine mineral water on human skin affected by modest inflammatory reactions caused by the direct application of the chemical irritant SLS. Leopoldine spa water can, thus, be considered a natural therapeutic alternative for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions.

Topics: Adult; Balneology; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Italy; Male; Middle Aged; Mineral Waters; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Treatment Outcome

There is an increasing need for screening of mild irritants in vitro to reduce animal testing.. Proteomics were used to search for new markers of which the expression changes after mild irritation.. Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) was applied topically on excised human skin. Epidermal proteins were isolated from SLS-treated skin specimens that showed hardly any morphological changes. The proteins were analysed by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D-PAGE) and proteins that significantly increased or decreased after SLS treatment in a dose-dependent way were characterized by mass spectrometry. Subsequently, immunohistochemistry was performed on skin samples treated with SLS in vivo and nonanoic acid (NAA) or benzalkonium chloride (BC) in vitro to evaluate one of the identified proteins for its predictive value.. We identified seven proteins as potentially new epidermal markers for skin irritation. Among these seven proteins, the 27 kDa heat shock protein (HSP27) was identified as the most prominently upregulated protein. A strong nuclear HSP27 staining was seen in the SLS-treated skin, whereas in the vehicle controls only cytoplasmic staining was observed. Moreover, nuclear staining was also observed after topical application of SLS in vivo and after exposure to NAA and BC in vitro.. Our findings suggest that HSP27 may serve as a sensitive marker of skin irritation and eventually as a novel tool in clinics for testing the sensitivity of the patient for a panel of irritants.

Topics: Animal Testing Alternatives; Biomarkers; Cell Nucleus; Culture Techniques; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Heat-Shock Proteins; HSP27 Heat-Shock Proteins; Humans; Molecular Chaperones; Neoplasm Proteins; Proteome; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

After using cosmetics, Japanese women frequently complain about sensitive, stinging skin. We wondered whether Japanese women's skin is more sensitive than that of Caucasians.. To examine possible racial differences of skin irritation and subjective sensations.. We performed patch testing on the forearm with sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) at different concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%) and 24-h exposure time. Skin reaction was evaluated by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration, sebum secretion, laser Doppler flowmetry (LD), content of melanin and erythema. During a stinging test with 10% lactic acid (applied to one side of the cheeks) the subjects were asked to describe the present intensity of any sensation. We used a Chromameter to measure skin colour before and after application of lactic acid. This study was performed in Marburg, Germany, with healthy Japanese and German women living in Marburg.. After SLS testing, we found no significant differences of the barrier function in the stratum corneum, but we found significant subjective sensory differences between Japanese and German women.. Japanese women may complain about stronger sensations reflecting a different cultural behaviour rather than measurable differences in skin physiology; however, a faster penetration of SLS in Japanese cannot be excluded.

Topics: Adult; Asian People; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Germany; Humans; Japan; Pain; Pain Measurement; Patch Tests; Skin Irritancy Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; White People

Although the role of T cells in skin contact sensitivity (CS) immune reactions has been intensely studied, much less is known about the regulatory properties of T cells in the oral mucosa. Animal experiments have shown that hapten sensitization of the ectodermal oral mucosa leads to antigen-specific hypersensitivity reactions in the skin. Furthermore, oral mucosa or skin hapten sensitization resulted in CS inflammatory reactions in the oral mucosa on challenge. The oral mucosa CS responses were similar to those found skin with regard to cell phenotypes and cytokines. CS-like reactions were also found in the oral mucosa after exposure to an irritant detergent, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). The oral mucosa reacted at smaller SLS doses than did skin. Ions and molecules released fron dental restorative materials (together with saliva and food and/or beverages) expose the gastrointestinal mucosa continuously over long time periods. From animal experiments we have learned that mice given antigen by gastric feeding, subsequently antigen-sensitized on skin, and finally elicited in the oral mucosa and in ear skin, showed tolerance in skin but gave simultaneous CS inflammatory reactions in the oral mucosa. Moreover, exposure of colon mucosa to antigen produced CS reactions in oral mucosa after challenge. Are there CS reactions in the oral mucosa? Clinical and experimental studies indicate that the oral mucosa can function both as induction and expression site of CS. The GI tract may be an important modifier of the CS inflammatory reactions seen in the oral mucosa.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Haptens; Humans; Hypersensitivity, Delayed; Irritants; Mice; Models, Animal; Mouth Mucosa; Oxazolone; Rats; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; T-Lymphocytes; Trinitrobenzenesulfonic Acid

Hand disinfection with short-chain aliphatic alcohols, so-called "rub-ins" is the method of choice for cross-infection prevention in health care environments, but their irritant potential is not well known. Skin tolerance is a major compliance factor, and a high proportion of health care workers suffer from low-grade irritant contact dermatitis. Therefore, assessment of the irritancy of the skin disinfectant n-propanol 60%, and comparative 100% and 0% solutions, was performed in the setting of experimental low-grade ICD. ICD was induced by overnight patch exposure to H2O, and to 0.3% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), in 12 probands, followed by repeated open exposure to the test substances. Outcome variables were transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin surface capacitance. On skin sites pre-irritated by SDS, all n-propanol concentrations (100%, 60%, 0%) increased TEWL. However, a clear divergence appeared between pure n-propanol, and the lower concentrations. In contrast to pure n-propanol, n-propanol 60% and 0% had no significant effect on TEWL on H2O-pre-irritated skin sites. Capacitance of pre-irritated skin sites was increased by exposure to H2O-containing n-propanol solutions (60% and 0%). These results show a clear difference between the irritant potential of n-propanol 100% on one side, and n-propanol 60% and 0% on the other side. The level of pre-existent skin irritation is a pertinent factor in susceptibility to irritation, as the irritant potential of n-propanol 60%, the concentration used in daily practice, and n-propanol 0% (water) became significant only on detergent-irritated skin. Thus, preventive skin care may be a constructive approach in increasing tolerance of modern hand disinfection practices.

Topics: 1-Propanol; Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Disinfectants; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Statistics, Nonparametric; Water

These studies were conducted to investigate the potential use of a flow cytometric analysis method for the identification and differentiation of chemicals with the capacity to induce irritation, IgE- or T cell-mediated hypersensitivity responses. An initial study investigated the ability of equally sensitizing concentrations (determined by local lymph node assay) of IgE-mediated (Toluene Diisocyanate-TDI) and T cell-mediated (Dinitrofluorobenzene-DNFB) allergens to differentially modulate the IgE+B220+ population in the lymph nodes draining the dermal exposure site. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was also tested as a nonsensitizing irritant control. Female B6C3F1 mice were dermally exposed once daily for 4 consecutive days, with the optimum time point for analysis determined by examining the IgE+B220+ population 8, 10, and 12 days post-initial chemical exposure. At the peak time point, day 10, the IgE+B220+ population was significantly elevated in TDI (41%), while moderately elevated in DNFB (18%) exposed animals when compared to the vehicle (0.8%), and remained unchanged in SLS (2.2%) exposed animals when compared to the ethanol control (2.5%). Experiments in our laboratory and others have demonstrated that the draining lymph node B220+ population becomes significantly elevated following exposure to allergens (IgE- and T cell-mediated), not irritants, allowing for their differentiation. An existing mouse ear swelling assay was used to identify chemical irritants. Therefore, using the endpoints of percent ear swelling, percent B220+ cells, and percent IgE+B220+ cells, a combined irritancy/phenotypic analysis assay was developed and tested with tetradecane (irritant), toluene diisocyanate, trimellitic anhydride (IgE-mediated allergens), benzalkonium chloride, dinitrofluorobenzene, oxazolone, and dinitrochlorobenzene (T cell-mediated allergens) over a range of concentrations. Based upon the pattern of response observed, a paradigm was developed for continued evaluation: Irritant exposure will result in significant ear swelling without altering the B220+ or IgE+B220+ populations. Exposure to sensitizers (IgE-mediated or T cell-mediated) will increase the B220+ population and the percent ear swelling will remain unchanged or will significantly increase, depending on the irritancy capacity of the chemical. Both the IgE+B220+ and B220+ populations will become elevated at the same test concentration following exposure to IgE-mediated, hypersensitivity inducing alle

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrofluorobenzene; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Edema; Female; Flow Cytometry; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin G; Irritants; Lymph Nodes; Mice; Phenotype; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; T-Lymphocytes; Toluene 2,4-Diisocyanate

To gain a better understanding of the interaction of the model detergent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) with the stratum corneum, we investigated systematically the ultrastructural changes of the epidermal barrier and the nucleated parts of the epidermis after the occluded application of different concentrations of SLS in human. Different application models were investigated. Two of the three irritation procedures (long duration exposure and the repetitive exposure for 3 d) provoked damage of the nucleated parts of the epidermis and alterations of the lower parts of the stratum corneum. Here, the extrusion and transformation of lamellar body derived lipids into lamellar lipid bilayers were disturbed; however, the upper portions of stratum corneum displayed intact intercellular lipid layers that contradict the long-standing belief that surfactants damage the skin by delipidization. Furthermore, we investigated ultrastructurally and by measurement of transepidermal water loss the influence and protective capacity of a lipophilic barrier cream on acute irritant contact dermatitis. The irritant contact dermatitis was induced by the standardized cumulative short application model with two SLS concentrations (0.5% and 0.75%). The cumulative type of exposure simulates daily living more realistically. Because most of the previous tests have been performed on the human forearm or back, we analyzed whether the pattern of response was similar on both sites. The back showed a higher level of irritant reaction, but the pattern of irritant response proved to be similar to the forearm. Application of the barrier cream before and during irritation showed a decrease of transepidermal water loss enhancement with 0.5% SLS by 58% (back) and 49% (arm) and after irritation with 0.75% SLS by 56% (back) and 43% (arm). Because the experimental result correlated with the clinical experience, the development of the cumulative short exposure model might help to predict and to discriminate the efficacy of barrier creams.

Topics: Adult; Back; Dermatitis, Contact; Detergents; Epidermis; Female; Forearm; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Ointments; Permeability; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

Burckhardt proposed the alkali resistance method as a means of assessing the integrity of the stratum corneum barrier in 1947. Researchers after Burckhardt largely found the test unreliable and nonreproducible; it therefore fell into disuse worldwide. We have upgraded the procedure by exposing the skin to 1.0 M sodium hydroxide under strictly specified conditions for successive 1-min periods until the emergence of the first erosions, revealed by staining with nitrazine yellow. Histology showed that the erosions were follicular and limited to the epidermis. The test was highly reproducible and repeatable. We demonstrated the usefulness of the test in the following ways: (1) the erosion time increased with aging, correlating with a thickened horny layer; (2) as few as five Scotch tape strippings greatly decreased the erosion time, although transepidermal water loss was only slightly increased; (3) slight damage to the horny layer by a 24-h exposure to 0.01% sodium lauryl sulfate sharply reduced the erosion time; (4) the erosion time decreased after daily open applications for 3 weeks of clobetasol propionate, corresponding to the thinned horny layer; (5) daily applications of petrolatum increased the erosion time. This new version of the alkali resistance test, renamed the sodium hydroxide erosion assay, promises to be a useful tool for studying the horny layer barrier in healthy and diseased skin.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Clobetasol; Dermatitis, Contact; Drug Resistance; Female; Glucocorticoids; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Reproducibility of Results; Skin; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

Cigarette smoking significantly alters the inflammatory response in the skin following application of irritants and rubefacients. The mechanism of this effect is unknown. There are thousands of components in cigarette smoke that may be pharmacologically important, but there is evidence to suggest that nicotine may play an important role in the observed effect on the inflammatory process.. This was an interventional study to assess cutaneous responsiveness to different stimuli after transdermal nicotine administration in volunteer subjects. Cutaneous testing was performed at baseline and at weeks 2 and 4 (the end) of the study.. The department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.. Ten lifelong nonsmokers were recruited for the study.. Nicotine patches were applied daily for 1 month.. The following tests were performed: application of 2 times the minimal irritancy dose of sodium lauryl sulfate, irradiation with 2 times the minimal erythema dose of UV-B, measurement of cutaneous vasodilation following application of ethyl and hexyl nicotinate, and reactive hyperemia following arterial occlusion.. There was a significant reduction in the cutaneous inflammatory response to sodium lauryl sulfate (P < .001) and irradiation with UV-B (P < .003) and a reduction in reactive hyperemia (P < .03) after 2 weeks of treatment, which returned values to normal at 4 weeks. There was no change in blood flow following application of topical nicotinates.. Nicotine administration via a transdermal delivery system suppresses the cutaneous inflammatory response to sodium lauryl sulfate and UV-B, as well as triggers a transient suppression of reactive hyperemia following arterial occlusion. The apparent anti-inflammatory effects of smoking cigarettes can therefore only partially be explained as a long-term effect of nicotine.

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adult; Arterial Occlusive Diseases; Brachial Artery; Central Nervous System Stimulants; Dermatitis; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Erythema; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hyperemia; Irritants; Male; Nicotine; Nicotinic Acids; Polymethacrylic Acids; Polyvinyls; Radiation Dosage; Regional Blood Flow; Skin; Smoking; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Tobacco Use Cessation Devices; Ultraviolet Rays; Vasodilation

Skin hyperirritability to irritants as well as atopy are considered to be predisposing factors for contact dermatitis. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether these predictive factors are independent or whether they are so closely related that one could possibly replace the other 205 metalworker trainees underwent skin examination for skin atopy, including standardized questionnaire, clinical examination of the skin and a series of skin irritability tests. These tests included measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) before and after irritation with 3 different irritants: sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The results of the linear regression analysis demonstrate that skin atopy is not associated with increased skin irritability, as assessed by the irritability testing methods presented.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dimethyl Sulfoxide; Drug Hypersensitivity; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Humans; Male; Metallurgy; Multivariate Analysis; Regression Analysis; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Switzerland; Water Loss, Insensible

Our understanding of the details of the recovery time of acute irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is limited. We examined skin reactivity to a model surfactant, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), on previous acute ICD and normal sites over time with visual grading and noninvasive instruments. Acute ICD was induced on the upper arms of 18 volunteers (aged 30 to 51 years) by occluded application of 1% SLS for 24 h. Previous ICD and normal sites were provoked by occluded application of 2% or 7.5% SLS 30 min daily 4 consecutive days. Skin reactivity was assessed daily by visual erythema scoring (VES), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin color reflectance (SCR) and electrical capacitance (EC). Skin function of previous ICD sites assessed by VES, TEWL, SCR, and EC did not normalize until 2 weeks later; all parameters of previous ICD returned to normal after 3 weeks. While skin reactivity to 2% and 7.5% SLS showed no differences between previous ICD and normal sites at 4 weeks, differences of irritant reactivity especially 7.5% SLS between previous ICD and normal sites were significant at 3 weeks post-provocation. Our results demonstrate that irritation evaluated with irritant provocation was long-lasting, even though skin functional parameters assessed by various bioengineering instruments returned to normal. Complete recovery of skin function including irritability after acute ICD induced by 1% SLS was achieved approximately 4 weeks later. The date were generated with a model surfactant; it remains to be determined whether similar responses will be noted with chemicals of different physiochemical properties.

Topics: Acute Disease; Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Electric Conductivity; Erythema; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Severity of Illness Index; Skin Pigmentation; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Water Loss, Insensible

This report reviews the clinical and histopathological reactions caused by sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and the non-invasive methods that can characterize these reactions. Furthermore, SLS exposure techniques and factors that may influence the outcome of these exposures are discussed. Finally, guidelines are introduced for each exposure technique in order to have a uniform approach to SLS testing in man. Since different study aims warrant different testing conditions, we have proposed 2 categories, namely susceptibility testing and provocative testing, tailored to the aim with which the study is performed.

Topics: Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Patch Tests; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The need to develop predictive tests which could identify potential allergens has been recognized for many years. There is as yet no accepted in vitro method for the assessment of contact sensitizers.. We have tested the ability of a range of contact allergens to induce in vitro primary sensitization of autologous T cells.. T-cell proliferation induced by haptens using 2-day cultured human Langerhans cells as antigen-presenting cell was assessed by 3H thymidine incorporation. Antigen specific stimulation was calculated as stimulation indexes.. Strong allergens induced in vitro a primary T-cell response in all (trinitrophenyl, TNP: 13/13) or in the majority (fluorescein isothiocyanate, FITC: 7/10) of experiments. An irritant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), failed to generate a significant T-cell proliferation in any of the experiments (0/10). We obtained a significant lymphoproliferative response to weak sensitizers only in a limited number of experiments: (coumarin: 1/12, citronellal: 0/10, hydroxycitronellal: 2/8). p-Phenylenediamine (PPDA), a prohapten and highly sensitizing chemical in vivo, generated primary sensitization in vitro in only one of six experiments, while Bandrowski's base (BB), a metabolization product of PPDA induced a significant T-cell response in all six experiments.. The present in vitro model allows discrimination between two groups of substances: strong contact sensitizers (TNP, FITC, BB) on the one hand and weak sensitizers (coumarin, citronellal and hydroxycitronellal) and irritants (SDS) on the other hand. It could be used as a screening in vitro assay to eliminate strong contact allergens before further predictive animal tests have to be performed.

Topics: Coumarins; Dermatitis, Contact; Diazonium Compounds; Fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate; Haptens; Humans; Immunization; Langerhans Cells; Lymphocyte Activation; Phenylenediamines; Pyridines; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; T-Lymphocytes; Terpenes; Trinitrobenzenes

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adult; Antibodies, Monoclonal; Biomarkers; Body Water; Cell Differentiation; Cell Division; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Irritants; Ki-67 Antigen; Male; Patch Tests; Protein Biosynthesis; Protein Precursors; Proteinase Inhibitory Proteins, Secretory; Proteins; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Adaptation, Physiological; Administration, Cutaneous; Adolescent; Adult; Animals; Anthropometry; Baths; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Forearm; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Irritants; Laser-Doppler Flowmetry; Male; Regeneration; Regional Blood Flow; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Volatilization

The purpose of this study was to determine whether 24 hour patch testing with 0.5% sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) could reliably predict skin susceptibility to an irritant when compared with the alkali resistance test (ART), a widely used method employing sodium hydroxide. After having given informed consent, 40 patients (age range from 20 to 60 years) with an active irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), 40 patients in whom ICD had cleared, as well as 40 healthy volunteers serving as controls were tested. The skin responses to SLS were assessed both visually and by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) as an indicator of stratum corneum integrity. SLS significantly increased the erythema scores and TEWL in patients with healed ICD, and the increase of TEWL was even more pronounced in patients with active ICD. By contrast, a decrease in alkali resistance was found in patients with active ICD only but not in patients with healed ICD. The data obtained indicate that the SLS test, unlike ART, may provide a non-invasive tool predicting a possible constitutional skin susceptibility or indicating a subclinically impaired epidermal barrier function. However, because of the relatively high interindividual variation, a cut-clear statement concerning the skin susceptibility cannot be made by this test. On the other hand, the ART seems only to be useful for following and documenting the healing period following ICD.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Water Loss, Insensible

Several integrin heterodimers such as alpha 2 beta 1, alpha 6 beta 4 and alpha v beta 5 are expressed on basal keratinocytes of the epidermis. Because overexpression of these integrins as well as induction of the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) have been found in inflammatory dermatoses, we sought to determine whether these modulations could be used as markers of skin irritation. In normal epidermis, topical application of 1% sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) for 24 h caused an upregulation of alpha 3, beta 1, alpha 6, beta 4, alpha v, beta 5 and to a lesser extent alpha 2 integrin chains as well as an induction of ICAM-1. To investigate whether these parameters could also be used for evaluation of skin irritancy in vitro, SDS was applied for 24 h to reconstructed epidermis on de-epidermized dermis (RE-DED). In RE-DED, integrin overexpression and aberrant alpha 5 expression was seen under normal in vitro culture conditions and topical application of SDS caused only marginal additional upregulation. We could not detect any ICAM-1 reactivity on either normal or irritated RE-DED. Our results demonstrate that the modulation of integrin and ICAM-1 expression can be used as markers of irritation of the epidermis in vivo, but not in vitro.

Topics: Biomarkers; Dermatitis, Contact; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Epidermis; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; In Vitro Techniques; Integrins; Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1; Irritants; Keratinocytes; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Up-Regulation

The non-invasive electrical impedance technique used in this study reflects structural changes in a tissue, and provides an estimate of the level of oedema by a simple impedance index. Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), dissolved in water at concentrations of 0.1, 0.5 and 2.0%, was applied for 24 h in 12 mm Finn chambers on both volar forearms of 12 healthy volunteers. An unoccluded area was used as a reference site. Readings from all sites were taken before the application of the irritant, and 24 h after its removal. After the last reading, a 3-mm punch biopsy was taken from each test site for histological examination. The results obtained from electrical impedance measurements at five different skin depths were correlated with those obtained from histological examination, visual scoring and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). For all of the methods used the responses were proportional to the concentration of the irritant. Statistically significant changes of electrical impedance were found for all depths and concentrations, except for 0.1% SLS at the most superficial depth. The histological changes were focused in the epidermis, and mainly consisted of oedema. Alterations in the thickness of the epidermis due to oedema were used as a quantitative parameter for correlation with the assessment of irritation using the electrical impedance technique. For the detection of irritant reactions, TEWL and electrical impedance are more sensitive than visual scoring, and selection of the optimum depth penetration further increases the sensitivity of the electrical impedance measurement.

Topics: Adult; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Electric Impedance; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Following skin sensitization epidermal Langerhans' cells (LC), many of which bear antigen, are stimulated to migrate from the skin and traffic via afferent lymphatics to lymph nodes draining the site of exposure. It has been proposed previously that tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a keratinocyte-derived epidermal cytokine (the expression of which is augmented following cutaneous sensitization), provides one signal for LC migration. In the experiments described here the influence of systemically administered neutralizing anti-TNF-alpha antibody on dendritic cell (DC) accumulation in draining lymph nodes has been investigated. Treatment with anti-TNF-alpha inhibited markedly the frequency of DC in draining nodes measured 18 hr following exposure to the skin allergens oxazolone and fluorescein isothiocyanate or to the non-sensitizing skin irritant sodium lauryl sulphate. Similar treatment with anti-TNF-alpha 2 hr prior to primary exposure to oxazolone impaired significantly the efficiency of skin sensitization measured 5 days later as a function of challenge-induced increases in ear thickness. The same antibody administered 18 hr following initial exposure to oxazolone was without effect on skin sensitization. These data confirm the importance of TNF-alpha for the migration of LC from the skin to draining lymph nodes and demonstrate that this cytokine is required for optimal contact sensitization.

Topics: Animals; Antibodies, Monoclonal; Cell Movement; Dendritic Cells; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Fluorescein-5-isothiocyanate; Lymph Nodes; Mice; Mice, Inbred BALB C; Oxazolone; Signal Transduction; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Single cilia were found in melanocytes and basal keratinocytes in normal epidermis and in epidermis subjected to various types of exposure. Quantitative electron microscopy showed that about 31% of the melanocytes and 71% of the keratinocytes from normal skin possessed a ciliary apparatus, but there was a wide individual variation. A statistically significant decrease in the number of ciliated keratinocytes followed exposure to nickel, sodium lauryl sulphate, UVA and UVB irradiation. There was no statistically significant difference between controls and skin subjected to various exposures regarding the number of ciliated melanocytes. We have earlier reported that single cilia are frequently seen on epithelial cells capable of mitotic activity in human oral and vaginal epithelia. The present study showed that single cilia react to external exposures. The cilium might be a sensitive, easily damaged organelle, or the decrease in ciliated cells might reflect a change in normal mitotic activity as a result of exposure.

Topics: Cilia; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Humans; Keratinocytes; Melanocytes; Nickel; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Ultraviolet Rays

Topics: Cytokines; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Humans; Interleukin-6; Laser-Doppler Flowmetry; Microdialysis; Nickel; Perfusion; Pilot Projects; Receptors, Interleukin-2; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

To investigate the interleukin-8 production of keratinocytes after stimulation in vitro we have used various agents: (i) contact sensitizer (2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene, 3-n-pentadecylcatechol); (ii) tolerogen (5-methyl-3-n-pentadecylcatechol); (iii) irritant (sodium lauryl sulfate). Interleukin-8 gene expression was assessed by northern blot hybridization of the total cytoplasmic RNA extracted from subconfluent normal human keratinocyte cultures and the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT using a radiolabeled DNA probe specific for human interleukin-8. Interleukin-8 gene expression was markedly increased upon in vitro stimulation after 1-6 h with contact sensitizers, tolerogen and the irritant. In contrast, interleukin-8 production was not detectable in unstimulated normal human keratinocytes or the HaCaT keratinocyte cell line. These results suggest that the induction and production of interleukin-8 is a response to nonspecific stimuli and may play a critical role in the early response to immunogenic or inflammatory signals in man.

Topics: Catechols; Cell Line, Transformed; Cells, Cultured; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrofluorobenzene; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Immune Tolerance; Interleukin-8; Irritants; Keratinocytes; RNA, Messenger; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

It has recently been suggested that the lipid-soluble, antibacterial agent triclosan possesses an anti-inflammatory effect in the oral cavity. The aim of the present study was to examine whether triclosan can protect the skin from the irritation or inflammation that may be caused by exposure to sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). Finn Chamber patch tests on the forearms of 10 volunteers showed that a mixture of SLS and triclosan caused no inflammation, whereas SLS alone caused reactions in all the subjects. Pre-treatment with triclosan before SLS exposure had a slight effect whereas treatment after exposure showed a significant effect. It is suspected that the reported anti-gingivitis effect of triclosan may at least in part be explained by an anti-inflammatory effect.

Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Erythema; Female; Forearm; Gingivitis; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Pilot Projects; Polysorbates; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Triclosan

Irritant contact dermatitis is a major problem in dermatology. One important group of substances causing irritant dermatitis is detergents. Exposure of the skin to detergents is frequent in both work and domestic environments. In the present paper we have studied how the penetration through the skin, and thus the effect, of the detergent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is altered when the temperature is raised from 22 degrees C to 40 degrees C or 60 degrees C. We found that the penetration of sodium lauryl sulfate increased with increasing temperature. When comparing the increased penetration of sodium lauryl sulfate with the change in NiCl penetration at the same temperatures, we found that the increase in penetration was more pronounced for the detergent. This implies that the detergent also had a different effect on the structure and function of the epidermal barrier itself. The results underline the importance of choosing the right (low) temperature when working with detergent solutions to reduce the risk of developing irritant contact reactions.

Topics: Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Detergents; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Nickel; Skin Absorption; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Temperature

In previous studies, we showed that a number of aspects of the histopathology of irritant contact dermatitis are profoundly influenced by the chemical nature of the irritant applied. We report here that this phenomenon also extends to the infiltration of leukocytes into the epidermis. Healthy volunteers were patch tested with the following irritants and their appropriate controls: benzalkonium chloride, sodium lauryl sulphate, croton oil, dithranol, nonanoic acid, and propylene glycol. After visually grading the intensity of the resulting inflammation, biopsies were removed and the major phenotypic classes of leukocytes identified immunocytochemically. Dermal and epidermal cell densities were determined, and the expression of several activation/proliferation antigens studied. We found a similar pattern of cellular infiltration in the dermis of all irritant groups; the densities of most of the cell types rising in line with the intensity of inflammation. Within the epidermis, however, there were marked differences in the patterns of cellular infiltration between the irritant groups, leading to poorer correlations between leukocyte density and visual grading. The greatest disparity occurred between croton oil and nonanoic acid biopsies, the former being characterized by the influx of large numbers of leukocytes, the latter showing remarkably little exocytosis. Infiltration of neutrophils occurred to varying degrees with all irritants, but a disproportionately large number were present in sodium lauryl sulphate biopsies. All control groups showed a rise in CD4+ cells, with distilled water also producing increases in CD11c+ cells and neutrophils. A selective influx of CD25+ cells occurred in the epidermis of both irritant and control groups. Our observations further highlight the heterogeneous nature of irritant contact dermatitis, and confirm previous findings that visually negative control patch tests show marked cellular reactivity.

Topics: Anthralin; Benzalkonium Compounds; Cell Count; Cell Division; Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Fatty Acids; HLA-DR Antigens; Humans; Irritants; Leukocyte Count; Leukocytes; Male; Neutrophils; Patch Tests; Propylene Glycol; Propylene Glycols; Receptors, Interleukin-2; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; T-Lymphocytes

In order to monitor the kinetics of Langerhans cells in the afferent lymph during contact dermatitis, a superficial peripheral lymph vessel draining the skin of the upper and medial part of the foot was cannulated by means of microsurgery on the lower leg of four healthy volunteers. After 2 days an irritant contact dermatitis was induced by application of 10% sodium lauryl sulphate to the area of skin drained by the cannulated lymph vessel. Three days later the spontaneously regressing skin reaction was treated with clobetasol propionate in two of the subjects. Lymph was collected twice daily for 8 days. Langerhans cells were identified by immunofluorescence microscopy of cytocentrifuge slide preparations from the lymph, using a monoclonal anti-CD1a antibody. In the late phase of the contact dermatitis the output, i.e. both the absolute number and the percentage of Langerhans cells in the lymph dramatically increased. At the end of the experiment, when there were no remaining clinical signs of contact dermatitis, the Langerhans cell output still markedly exceeded the initial values. These results are the first direct evidence in humans that migration of Langerhans cells from the skin to the regional lymph nodes is a major feature of irritant contact dermatitis.

Topics: Adult; Cell Count; Cell Movement; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Langerhans Cells; Lymph; Male; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors

The electrical impedance in 23 healthy volunteers at 2-6 different skin sites was measured with a new impedance device, which makes possible non-invasive local measurements to a controlled depth. In 11 subjects, the test sites were occluded for 24 h using empty Finn Chambers and chambers with water, physiological saline, a paper disc or 0.002% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). In the normal skin of 10 subjects, the electrical impedance was measured from 5 different body areas for 5 consecutive days. In 3 subjects, daily measurements for 1 month were done, both from normal skin and from skin following the application of 2% SLS. The results show that the irritation index based on electrical skin impedance gives little day-to-day variation at one and the same test site, in comparison to the variations between different test sites on the same subject and the interindividual variations observed. Significant differences in impedance values between different anatomical regions of normal skin were found. Occlusion does not affect readings taken 24 h or later after removal, but increases variance for readings taken 1 h after removal. Effects on the skin of mild irritation and its recovery phase are easily monitored with the new device. Technology based on electrical impedance, in its newly presented form, with the advantages of improved geometrical definition and depth control, can be used as an objective tool to measure skin irritation. For detection of subclinical irritant contact dermatitis, repeated readings taken over several days may be needed.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Irritant; Electric Impedance; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Male; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

A superficial peripheral lymph vessel draining the skin of the upper and medial part of the foot was cannulated on the lower leg of six healthy human volunteers. After 2 days an irritant contact dermatitis was induced by application of 10% sodium lauryl sulphate to the area of skin drained by the lymph vessel. Three days later the spontaneously regressing skin reaction was treated with clobetasol propionate. Lymph was collected twice daily for 7 days, and the levels of various cytokines (IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-2 and soluble IL-2 receptors, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha, GM-CSF) were determined by ELISA technique. In the majority of the volunteers all cytokines examined were detected in several lymph samples, with the exception of IL-1 alpha and IL-8. In parallel with the clinical symptoms of the contact dermatitis the levels of IL-6 and TNF-alpha increased 8-10-fold, whereas for IL-1 beta, IL-2, IL-2 receptors, and GM-CSF there was a delayed, 2-3-fold increase. These results suggest that cytokines, in particular IL-6 and TNF-alpha, may actively participate in the immunological reactions in the skin and in the regional lymph nodes during contact dermatitis.

Topics: Cytokines; Dermatitis, Contact; Foot Dermatoses; Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor; Humans; Interleukin-6; Interleukins; Lymph; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Specimen Handling; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Immunologic processes in diseased human skin have been extensively investigated, but little is known about the effect of skin diseases on human afferent skin lymph. Starting in the papillary dermis, the skin lymphatics drain the adjacent tissue in a one-way flow toward the regional lymph nodes. The composition of the afferent lymph, therefore, reflects the immunologic inflammatory processes in the drained tissue. To obtain afferent lymph to investigate its content, we inserted a cannula, by means of microsurgery, into a superficial peripheral lymph vessel draining a defined skin area. By manipulating the drained skin area and subsequent examination of the lymph we established an in vivo system for investigating the kinetics of lymph changes during the course of skin reactions. In lymph derived from a mild sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)--induced contact dermatitis we could demonstrate an increase of both flow and cells. In particular, the number of Langerhans cells (LC) increased enormously during the course of the skin reaction. It, therefore, seems that a large increase in the migration of LC from the skin to the regional lymph nodes is a major feature of SLS-induced contact dermatitis, suggesting that LC may play a major role in the irritant contact dermatitis reaction.

Topics: Cell Count; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Langerhans Cells; Lymph; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

In order to characterize and quantify irritant skin reactions, 12 women aged 18 to 45 underwent 5 patch tests with sodium lauryl sulfate at the following concentrations: 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 5%. The tests, applied on volar forearm skin, were removed after a 24-h application. Evaporimetry and B scanning were carried out at the beginning and at 24, 48 and 72 h after patch test application. Echographic recordings were performed by Dermascan C (Cortex Technology, Hadsund, Denmark). After the acquisition, the echographic images were processed by a dedicated software (Dermavision 2D, Cortex Technology, Hadsund, Denmark) enabling the selection of amplitudes of interest and the transformation into a binary colour system. By attributing one colour to a selected amplitude band, part of an image can be highlighted and assessed by a value corresponding to the number of pixels (picture elements). For the evaluation of the images, 2 bands were chosen. The first, ranging from 201 to 255 is able to highlight hyperreflecting parts of the pictures (epidermis, lower part of the dermis); the second, ranging from 0 to 30, marks the hypo-echogenic part of the tissue, which is the site of inflammation. The evaluation by means of the 201-255 amplitude band showed a marked decrease of the echogenicity of the epidermis which was more pronounced at 24-h determinations and for higher concentrations of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), whereas the increase in pixel numbers, shown by the 0-30 band, was slight and apparent only for high SLS concentrations. Echographic data and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) values showed a good correlation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Image Enhancement; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Ultrasonography

By means of microsurgery a peripheral subcutaneous lymph vessel draining a defined skin area was isolated and cannulated on the lower leg of six healthy volunteers. Lymph was collected over a period of 8 days. During the first 2 days baseline values for lymph flow and output of cells were established. A contact dermatitis was then induced in the drained skin area by the application of 10% sodium lauryl sulphate. All six probands developed a mild to moderate irritant contact dermatitis. Lymph flow as well as output of cells increased with the intensity of the skin reaction. Subsequent local treatment with clobetasol propionate decreased the cell output, but the lymph flow increased further. Neither lymph flow nor output of cells returned to the initial baseline values at the end of the study, when the clinical signs of contact dermatitis had completely disappeared. During the experiment significant individual variations were found, with means ranging from 0.10 to 0.48 ml/h for lymph flow and from 8700 to 174000/h for cells, which probably depended mainly on the different topographies and calibres of the cannulated lymph vessels.

Topics: Adult; Cell Count; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Lymph; Male; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The influence of irritant contact dermatitis on percutaneous penetration was investigated for four 14C-labeled compounds with diverse physicochemical properties: hydrocortisone (HC), indomethacin (IM), ibuprofen (IB), and acitretin (AC). Hairless guinea pigs were pretreated in vivo for 24 h with either 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) to induce irritant contact dermatitis or with water (controls). Twenty-four hours after pretreatment animals were sacrificed. Percutaneous penetration was then measured using in vitro diffusion cells and the removed (pretreated) skin. The following parameters were determined: cumulative amount of compound penetrated, steady state flux, lag time, and permeability coefficient, skin concentration per unit area, and the relative amount of drug remaining in the skin (as a percentage of the cumulative amount of compound penetrated through the skin). SLS pretreatment resulted in moderate irritant dermatitis in all animals and increased in vivo transepidermal water loss 4.5 times. Flux was increased in SLS-pretreated skin as compared with controls for all four compounds, with the greatest enhancement for hydrocortisone (HC) (5.9 times), followed by indomethacin (IM) (4.6 times), ibuprofen (IB) (3.9 times), and acitretin (AC) (3.4 times). Skin concentrations increased to a smaller degree from 1.6 times (IB) and 2.6 times (HC) to 3.4 times (IM). However, AC skin concentrations were not different between the two groups. Thus, percutaneous penetration parameters were equivocally influenced by SLS-induced irritation. Increased skin concentrations were paralleled by even higher increases in flux.

Topics: Acitretin; Administration, Cutaneous; Administration, Topical; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hydrocortisone; Ibuprofen; Indomethacin; Skin Absorption; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Tretinoin

The influence of sodium lauryl sulfate-induced irritant contact dermatitis on in vivo percutaneous penetration was investigated for four 14C-labeled compounds with diverse physicochemical properties: hydrocortisone (HC), indomethacin (IM), ibuprofen (IB), and acitretin (AC). Hairless guinea pigs were pretreated for 24 h with either 0.5% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) to induce irritant contact dermatitis or with water (controls). Twenty-four hours after pretreatment, 450 microliters saturated solutions of HC, IM, IB, or AC in isopropylmyristate were applied to the pretreated skin for 24 h. Systemic absorption was determined by urinary and fecal excretion of compounds. Drug concentrations in stratum corneum (obtained by tape cellophane stripping after decontamination of the application site) and in epidermis/dermis (punch biopsy) were also investigated. Systemic absorption of topically applied drugs (as evaluated by urinary and fecal excretion) in SLS-irritated skin was significantly increased for HC (factor 2.6) followed by IB (1.9 times) and IM (1.6 times) but not increased for AC. However, drug concentrations in the viable epidermis and dermis were 70% lower in SLS-irritated than normal skin for HC, but not different for IB, IM, and AC. Thus, the influence of the state of the skin (irritant dermatitis versus healthy) on percutaneous penetration was different for diverse drugs. The general assumption that percutaneous penetration and drug tissue concentrations were higher in diseased versus healthy skin was not found to be true in our irritated-skin model.

Topics: Acitretin; Administration, Topical; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Guinea Pigs; Hydrocortisone; Ibuprofen; Indomethacin; Skin; Skin Absorption; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Tretinoin

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Humans; Humidity; Middle Aged; Random Allocation; Skin Temperature; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Basic physiological characteristics were examined in the uninvolved skin of 39 patients with hand eczema and in 39 healthy controls. Susceptibility to sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)-induced irritant dermatitis was evaluated by the application of a single 24-h SLS patch test to the upper arm. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured by an evaporimeter, skin thickness by ultrasound A-scan, blood flow by laser-Doppler flowmetry and skin colour by a chroma meter using the L*a*b* system of the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE). No difference in basal TEWL values was found between patients and controls. A decreased skin thickness was found in those with hand eczema as compared to the controls. The hand eczema patients had significantly increased L* and decreased b*-values compared to controls, indicating a more 'fair' skin. Susceptibility to SLS was increased only in patients with acute eczema, indicating that the presence of an active eczema increases the reactivity to irritants of distant uninvolved skin.

Topics: Acute Disease; Adult; Body Water; Color; Dermatitis, Contact; Eczema; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Regional Blood Flow; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The influence of basal transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin thickness, blood flow and skin colour on susceptibility to sodium-lauryl-sulphate(SLS)-induced irritant contact dermatitis was studied in 70 healthy volunteers. SLS 0.5% was applied as a patch test. For assessment of basal values and skin response to SLS, bioengineering methods were used: TEWL was measured by an evaporimeter, skin thickness by ultrasound A-scan, blood flow by laser Doppler flowmetry, and skin colour by a colorimeter, using the L*a*b* system of the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE). By use of multiple regression analysis, it was demonstrated that basal TEWL was substantially related to skin susceptibility to SLS, high basal TEWL predicting an increased susceptibility to SLS. Also increased light reflection from the skin, indicating a 'fair' skin, was found to be associated with increased susceptibility to SLS.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Disease Susceptibility; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Skin Pigmentation; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

We studied the effect of "irritants" on the response to an allergen in 15 patients. Dilutions of allergens were applied in duplicate, and 24 hours later they were removed and sodium lauryl sulfate (11 subjects) or anthralin (dithranol) (four subjects) was applied for a further 24 hours to one set of patches. Control dilutions of irritants alone were applied. Responses were measured objectively at 72 hours. The response to both allergen and irritant was greater than to either alone. Doses of allergen, which did not produce a response when applied alone, produced a response when an irritant was added. Irritants therefore increase the allergic contact dermatitis response and may explain the presence of contact dermatitis in patients with negative patch tests.

Topics: Allergens; Anthralin; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Synergism; Humans; Irritants; Nickel; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Cold Temperature; Dermatitis, Contact; Eczema; Fatty Acids; Humans; Middle Aged; Seasons; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

This report concerns the development of a short, simple, non-invasive test for assessing sensitivity to irritant dermatitis. Application of NaOH (0.005-2.0 mol/l) to human skin resulted in significantly greater skin surface water loss directly after exposure (1-15 min) than of control (water). The increase in skin surface water loss after NaOH application was dose-dependent (0.005-0.1 mol/l) and application time-dependent (1-10 min). Application times exceeding 10 min did not further increase skin surface water loss and doses higher than 0.1 mol/l reversed the effect on skin surface water loss. 15 min after removal of the alkali, skin surface water loss baseline values were almost regained. This procedure did not cause visible reactions or discomfort for the volunteers. In a subsequent experiment, volunteers were exposed to 0.2 mol/l NaOH for 5 min on one forearm and to 1% sodium lauryl sulfate for 24 h contralaterally. Skin surface water loss after 5 min of NaOH application was significantly correlated with transepidermal water loss measurements after 24 h of sodium lauryl sulfate patch application. This is, to our knowledge, the first description of a procedure for quantifying interindividual differences in stratum corneum barrier function without inducing visible changes or causing volunteers discomfort. Use of this model should help to further investigate skin barrier function as well as to test protective devices and barrier creams.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Epidermis; Female; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Water Loss, Insensible

The reactivity of forearm and vulvar skin to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was studied in two groups of 20 healthy women each, 10 before and 10 after menopause. Vulvar skin was less reactive to SLS in both low and high concentrations than was forearm skin. Transepidermal water loss measurement did not seem to be an indicator of irritant dermatitis in vulvar skin. Capacitance measurements, reflecting changes in skin hydration, seemed to be more suitable for monitoring vulvar irritant dermatitis. Age-related differences in irritant reaction were more apparent in low-grade irritant dermatitis induced by low concentrations of SLS than in intense reactions to higher SLS concentrations.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Forearm; Humans; Menopause; Middle Aged; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Vulvar Diseases

Infra-red thermography was used to quantify, at patch test sites, the allergic responses to experimental preparations of nickel sulphate and primary irritant responses to sodium lauryl sulphate in small groups of volunteers. The technique was also used to assess the patch-test responses in a much larger group of patients who had undergone routine patch testing for contact allergy with a wide range of test substances and among which there were large numbers of allergic, irritant and equivocal reactions. Thermographically, when compared to the surrounding normal skin surface, the sites of allergic reactions appeared as hot areas, the temperature and area of which were apparently dependent on the severity of the response. For allergic responses, there was a good correlation between the clinical assessment and either of two thermographic parameters, temperature and area of involvement. Compared with an aqueous solution of nickel sulphate, 'poor' formulations of the allergen, such as a suspension in soft paraffin base, elicited smaller and cooler reactions. Irritant reaction sites were not 'hot' and the temperature at such sites was no different from that of the surrounding normal skin. Infra-red thermography is a convenient non-invasive technique which apparently can be used to discriminate between irritant and allergic responses and to quantify the latter type of response.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Hypersensitivity; Irritants; Male; Nickel; Patch Tests; Predictive Value of Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Thermography

The chronic effects of the irritant sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) on stratum corneum (SC) barrier function, determined by transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements and on epidermal cell kinetics, estimated by stratum corneum turnover time (SCTT) determination (dansyl chloride staining method), were investigated in 18 healthy female volunteers. SLS (7.5%) was applied without occlusion for 20 min once daily, over a period of 3 weeks (5 days a week) on dansyl chloride-stained skin and on untreated skin. SCTT of untreated skin (19.3 +/- 0.8 days; mean +/- SEM) was not changed by daily treatment with water (control) (19.3 +/- 2.0) but was significantly reduced by SLS (10.9 +/- 0.6; P less than or equal to 0.0001; compared to controls). However, TEWL was increased in SLS-treated sites 1.5-fold after 4 days of treatment (5.3 +/- 0.6 vs. 3.5 +/- 0.3; P less than 0.001). At the end of the second week, TEWL was increased 2.6-fold and after 3 weeks TEWL was 3.3 times higher than in controls 13.0 +/- 1.6 vs. 3.9, P less than or equal to 0.0001). The intensity of SLS-induced irritation as measured by TEWL was significantly correlated with baseline TEWL (r = 0.50; P less than or equal to 0.02) and significantly negatively correlated with SCTT of SLS treated sites (r = -50; P less than or equal to 0.02) but not with SCTT of untreated skin (r = 0.19).

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Irritants; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The susceptibility of the skin to various irritants was investigated with the aim of determining the role of the barrier function of the stratum corneum, skin dryness and whether a history of atopic dermatitis (AD) was a factor. The transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured using an evaporimeter and skin hydration using a Corneometer and by visual scoring. The group with a history of AD (n = 20) had a lower pre-exposure barrier function and a higher TEWL value following irritant exposure than the group with a history of allergic contact dermatitis (n = 18) and a control group (n = 18). Clinically dry skin was more susceptible than normal skin, though no difference was noted in the pre-exposure barrier function. The increased susceptibility to irritants in those with a past history of AD was probably due to impaired barrier function and/or the presence of a dry skin.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Ichthyosis; Irritants; Male; Middle Aged; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Water Loss, Insensible

Irritant effects and disturbance of water-holding capacity induced by surfactants were investigated using the plastic occlusion stress test (POST) technique. 4 surfactants (sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), sorbitan monolaurate, cocoamidopropyl betaine and benzalkonium chloride) and an amphoteric/nonionic (A/N) mix were investigated. 1 x daily for 3 days, test surfactants were applied to marked sites (open) on the volar forearm. After 24 h occlusion with a plastic chamber on the 4th day, skin surface water loss (SSWL) (g/m2h) was recorded continuously for 25 min with an evaporimeter. The differences between the surfactants were statistically significant (Friedman's test p less than 0.01). SLS and the A/N mix revealed significant differences compared to the other compounds (p less than 0.05), both in decay constants and in values recorded at the beginning and at the end of the decay curve. The study suggests a mechanism for the high irritant potential of sodium lauryl sulphate compared to other surfactants: sorbitan monolaurate and benzalkonium chloride seem to influence (at the concentrations tested) to a lesser extent the water-holding capacity of the stratum corneum. The clinical and biological relevance of these observations requires long-term clinical correlations with final product use tests.

Topics: Adult; Benzalkonium Compounds; Dermatitis, Contact; Hexoses; Humans; Irritants; Male; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water Loss, Insensible

In sensitized subjects, minimum eliciting levels of cobalt were estimated using patch tests with aqueous cobalt chloride on both normal skin and on skin pretreated in various ways to enhance penetration and reactivity. 6 reacted to 10,000 ppm and 1 gave an equivocal reaction to 1000 ppm aq. cobalt. Pretreatment of the patch test site for 24 h with surfactant enhanced reactivity, reducing the minimum eliciting concentration to 1000 ppm cobalt chloride in 1 subject, to 100 ppm in 2 subjects, and in 3 subjects to 10 ppm aqueous cobalt chloride. No reactions were obtained at 1 ppm. EDTA was effective in reducing the response to aqueous cobalt.

Topics: Adult; Animals; Cobalt; Dermatitis, Contact; Edetic Acid; False Negative Reactions; False Positive Reactions; Female; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin Absorption; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The effect of site on the irritant dermatitis potential was studied in 10 subjects using the volar surface of the forearm. Erythema scoring and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements were used to assess irritation at different levels on the forearm. A sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS 2 g/v%) solution was used as a standard irritant in a patch test procedure and on open tests. Both the erythema scores and measurements of the TEWL of exposed skin showed significant localization differences, and demonstrated that the same sites on the forearm should be used for irritancy tests and possibly physiological studies.

Topics: Adult; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Forearm; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Occlusion often, but not always, enhances percutaneous absorption and thus may facilitate skin irritation. Quantitative data about the impact occlusivity may have on minimal irritant stimuli to which the skin is exposed in daily life, and which may lead to chronic irritant contact dermatitis, are however lacking. Irritant stimuli were administered by repeated application of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in an open application procedure. After the open exposure, the skin was either left open or occluded with plastic. Skin irritancy was assessed by means of visual grading and by transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements. Post-exposure occlusive treatment markedly enhanced the irritant response. 5 consecutive daily applications produced more irritation, with or without occlusion, than alternate day application. Occlusion may be a relevant factor in the development of irritant contact dermatitis from certain chemicals.

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Adult; Aged; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Occlusive Dressings; Patch Tests; Plastics; Skin; Skin Absorption; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The effect of ultraviolet light B (UVB) on immediate and delayed irritant reactions induced by dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO), phenol, and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) was studied in 12 volunteers. One half of the upper back was irradiated with 0.16 J/cm2 of UVB. Patch tests for immediate reactions were performed using dilution series of test substances on the 3rd, 9th and 15th days and for delayed reactions on the 2nd, 8th and 14th days after irradiation both on the UV-exposed and non-exposed areas of the back. The occlusion time was 20 min for immediate reactions and 20 h for delayed ones. Changes in the skin blood flow of the test sites were monitored using laser-Doppler flowmetry, and erythema and edema reactions were observed visually. Both immediate and delayed reactions were caused by DMSO and phenol; SLS elicited only delayed reactions. UVB diminished immediate reactions induced by phenol for at least 15 days after irradiation. Immediate reactions to DMSO were diminished 40 min after application on the UV-exposed area on the 3rd day. UVB diminished the delayed reactions from SLS and DMSO but not reactions induced by phenol.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Dimethyl Sulfoxide; Female; Humans; Irritants; Lasers; Male; Patch Tests; Phenols; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Ultraviolet Therapy

This study evaluates the influence of mineral oil and linoleic-acid-containing emulsions on the skin vapour loss (SVL) of detergent-induced irritant skin reactions. During a period of 2 weeks, 2 x 45 min applications of a sodium lauryl sulphate solution of low molarity were performed on the forearm of 9 volunteers. In the same period, a standard amount of each emulsion was applied on the induced irritant skin reactions, 3 times each day. The effect of the emulsions on the barrier function of the skin was evaluated by means of SVL measurements. The emulsion based on mineral greases significantly reduced SVL values during both weeks, possibly because of an occlusive effect. The emulsion with 15% of linoleic acid significantly reduced SVL values during the 1st week but not during the 2nd week. The emulsion with 38% of linoleic acid did not reduce SVL values at all.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Emulsions; Female; Humans; Linoleic Acid; Linoleic Acids; Male; Mineral Oil; Skin; Skin Physiological Phenomena; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

The rôle of different factors in the susceptibility of the skin to weak irritants was studied by means of multiple linear regression models. The skin of 37 healthy subjects was exposed to a solution of sodium lauryl sulphate of low molarity 2 x daily for 4 days. The condition of the skin was evaluated by transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements on the 1st day (before exposure, TEWL1) and on the 5th day of exposure (TEWL5), and by a visual scoring system. The TEWL5 value was strongly related to the TEWL1 value (R = 0.71). The influence of such factors as history of mucosal atopy, history of sensitivity to soap, dry skin, skin type, sex and age on the TEWL5 value was negligible. The baseline TEWL level (TEWL1) might be a reliable indication of an individual's susceptibility to weak irritants.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Humans; Middle Aged; Risk Factors; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Topics: Adult; Color; Dermatitis, Contact; Doppler Effect; Female; Humans; Lasers; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the protective effect of a new silicone-containing barrier-cream (Anthydro) and its vehicle (Anthydro without silicone) in the prevention of cutaneous irritation by detergents. We therefore planned a study in several stages, using an anionic surfactant well known for its irritant properties: sodium laurylsulphate (SLS) in aqueous solution. In a first series of experiments, the protective effect of the Anthydro cream against SLS was studied by invasive methods on guinea-pigs in order to determine histologically the protective effect of the cream when a 10 p. 100 SLS solution was applied on the skin under occlusion during 24 hours (Square chambers, Van der Bend). Typical and reproducible lesions were apparent, and the protected sites were compared with the unprotected sites. In parallel, we used non-invasive methods (conductivity, transepidermal water loss and cutaneous blood flow) to determine in humans the protective effect of Anthydro cream in comparison with unprotected sites after application during 24 hours of patches soaked with a 5 p. 100 SLS solution on the forearms of 13 adult and healthy volunteers (Silver patch tests, Van der Bend). In both experiments the Anthydro cream was effective in reducing the SLS-induced cutaneous irritation. In a second series of experiments, the Anthydro barrier-cream was compared with its "base" (Anthydro without silicone) in terms of effectiveness, following the same experimental procedure (invasive on guinea-pigs, and non-invasive on humans). The base was shown to be effective in protecting against irritation. However, the histological lesions were less intense when the skin was protected by Anthydro than by its vehicle. Concerning the non-invasive methods in humans, no significant statistical differences appeared in the measurement of various parameters between the sites protected by Anthydro and the sites protected by the vehicle. These results lead us to suggest the existence of an essentially mechanical protective effect in which the silicone plays a very small part in terms of effectiveness. These experimental results necessitates further investigations to be extrapolated to occupational conditions without tests performed in industries and well-conducted epidemiological investigations.

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dimethylpolysiloxanes; Drug Combinations; Drug Evaluation; Emulsions; Excipients; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Ointments; Patch Tests; Silicone Oils; Silicones; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Thiazoles

Pyridostigmine bromide (PB) delivered transdermally may be a useful pretreatment for organophosphate poisoning. PB transdermal formulations were developed since this route has the potential to provide a more constant, prolonged and therapeutically-effective drug level in the body. Guinea pig skin sensitization studies, using a variation of the split adjuvant technique, were conducted with various PB transdermal formulations as part of a safety evaluation profile. 3 gel matrix formulations were tested. The 3 formulations contained 50% PB, 30% PB with 0.198% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and 30% PB with 0.21% of a proprietary surfactant (PS), respectively. SLS and the proprietary surfactant were added to the formulations as dermal penetration enhancers. 9 groups of 10 animals were induced and challenged with 1 of the 3 PB or PB/surfactant formulations (3 groups per formulation). In addition, 2 groups of 10 animals were included in the study as positive controls that were induced and challenged with 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). 44% of the animals responded positively at challenge to 50% PB. 80% of the animals responded positively at challenge to 30% PB/0.198% SLS and 82% of the animals had positive responses at challenge to 30% PB/0.21% PS. This study demonstrates that PB is a potential contact sensitizer that shows a potentiated response in the presence of surfactants.

Topics: Administration, Cutaneous; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Guinea Pigs; Pyridostigmine Bromide; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Irritant contact dermatitis may be induced by many chemicals and has a far greater incidence than allergic contact dermatitis. Despite this, it receives relatively little attention and its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. To gain a greater understanding of the interaction of irritants with the skin, we investigated the histopathological changes resulting from the topical application of a series of structurally unrelated irritants. Human volunteers were patch-tested with appropriate concentrations of nonanoic acid, sodium lauryl sulphate, dithranol, benzalkonium chloride, croton oil, and propylene glycol, which produced generally mild to moderate responses. Biopsy specimens were taken after 48 h and examined by light and electron microscopy. Spongiosis and the infiltration of predominantly mononuclear cells were observed in the epidermis of the majority of biopsy specimens, and were particularly pronounced and extensive in croton oil reactions. In addition, several irritants induced distinct and characteristic patterns of keratinocyte damage. Nonanoic acid and sodium lauryl sulphate caused morphologic changes indicative of disturbances in keratinocyte metabolism and differentiation, giving rise to dyskeratosis and parakeratosis respectively, while dithranol induced marked swelling of keratinocytes in the upper epidermis. The results suggest that there is a diversity and specificity in the histopathology of irritant contact dermatitis, reflecting the different ways in which chemicals may interact with components of the skin.

Topics: Adult; Benzalkonium Compounds; Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Fatty Acids; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Propylene Glycols; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Irritant dermatitis after application of experimental irritants was studied by means of contact thermography. Sixteen healthy persons were patch-tested, using the following irritants: Sodium lauryl sulphate, benzalkonium chloride, nonanoic acid, hydrochloric acid, croton oil, sapo kalinus and sodium hydroxide. A main finding was that croton oil after 24 h caused a warm skin lesion, and sodium lauryl sulphate after 96 h caused a cold skin lesion. This study emphasizes the differences in the skin reactions to different irritants.

Topics: Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Irritants; Patch Tests; Skin Temperature; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Thermography

Eleven subjects received patch tests with 2% sodium lauryl sulfate on a total of 34 anatomic sites. The irritant effect was monitored by visual means, laser Doppler velocimetry, and measurement of transepidermal water loss. After 1 week, repeat patch tests with 2% sodium lauryl sulfate were performed on the same site, and the effect was monitored as before. Although the skin had returned to normal or near normal before the repeat patch test, an augmented response to irritation was generally seen after the repeat patch test, particularly in transepidermal water loss, which showed an augmented response in 29 of the 34 anatomic sites. The clinical implications regarding the healing of contact irritant dermatitis are discussed.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Regional Blood Flow; Skin; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Ultrasonography; Water Loss, Insensible

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dimethyl Sulfoxide; Guinea Pigs; Irritants; Mast Cells; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Urticaria

Reactivity to repeated daily sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) applications and patch test reactivity to SLS was studied in 23 females. Skin changes were quantified by transepidermal water loss (TEWL), dielectric water content (DEWC), laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) and visual scoring (VS). Dermatologic histories (HS) and susceptibility to sunburn (ST) were obtained and clinical skin dryness evaluated (DS). Great interindividual variation occurred in the degrees of changes in the biophysical parameters measured: the variation was most apparent in TEWL. The subjects with HS 1 or more developed greatest TEWL increase after open SLS applications (p less than 0.05). DS showed poor correlation with SLS reactivity and only minor DEWC alterations were seen. ST showed some non-significant correlation with erythema reactivity in the patch test.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Blood Flow Velocity; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin; Skin Temperature; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

Erythema caused by occlusion of 3 concentrations of surfactant was quantified in vivo using a modified spectrophotometer. Standard chamber irritation test sites were evaluated objectively using the spectrophotometer and subjectively by trained observers. There was a good relationship between the instrumental and visual evaluations. The spectrum was analyzed and a region was chosen to optimize the sensitivity of the method.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Fiber Optic Technology; Humans; Irritants; Middle Aged; Optical Fibers; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Spectrophotometry; Surface-Active Agents

The different reactivity of black and white skin after exposure to sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) has been investigated. 9 white and 10 black male volunteers entered the study. The tests were performed on the back at 3 sites: untreated skin, skin pre-treated with occlusion and skin pre-delipidized. Irritant reactions were elicited applying 0.5% and 2.0% SLS via Finn chamber patch tests and monitored by means of laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV), transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum water content (WC). Higher TEWL, LDV, and WC values were recorded for 2.0% SLS when compared to 0.5% SLS and baselines. Pre-treatment with short-term occlusion generally increased values, while delipidization produced flattening of the data more detectable in whites than in blacks. Significant TEWL differences for the two concentrations were recorded in whites for the occluded site (P less than 0.02) while in blacks in the untreated (P less than 0.04) and delipidized (P less than 0.03) sites. LDV revealed significant changes in the untreated and pre-occluded white skin (P less than 0.05 and 0.01, respectively). In blacks, the values were significantly different only in the pre-occluded skin (P less than 0.01). Water content correlated with the visual score and was greatly increased in sites with strongly positive reactions (P less than 0.01). It appears that there are significant differences in the modulation of irritation, in the behavior of water barrier function and of the erythematous response between blacks and whites. Clinical correlations are discussed.

Topics: Adult; Black People; Body Water; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Humans; Lipid Metabolism; Male; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; White People

In a previously developed guinea pig model for the study of skin irritancy, the irritant skin reactions caused by repeated open applications of low concentrations of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) have been studied macroscopically and microscopically. 2 new assessment methods, evaporimetry, which reflects the water barrier function of stratum corneum, and laser Doppler flowmetry to measure the cutaneous blood flow, have been added and compared with the existing methods of assessment in the model. In the present study of the irritant reaction caused by 1% SLS in 9 test animals, the 5 assessment parameters all showed values which, compared to control untested skin, increased progressively over the 3 days of application. In the assessment of skin irritancy, both evaporimetry and laser Doppler flowmetry have been shown to be useful non-invasive tools which can be quickly and reproducibly performed.

Topics: Animals; Biopsy; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Guinea Pigs; Lasers; Regional Blood Flow; Rheology; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Volatilization

The variation in human skin response to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) was determined with patch and open applications. Reactions in different subjects and in multiple simultaneous patch tests were compared. Skin responses were assessed with visual scoring (VS), laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) and transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Previous open, unpatched SLS exposure decreased patch test reactivity to 1% SLS assessed with VS (p less than 0.05) or LDV (p less than 0.05). Corresponding TEWL alteration was inconstant. Variation in reactivity at different test sites in multiple simultaneous tests was considerable, though less than the variation at different test times (p less than 0.05). Inter-subject variation in test reactivity was greater than the variation between different test times or adjacent test sites. Repeated open applications and the subclinical dermatitis appear to have produced a hyporeactive state. The results suggest that non-specific skin inflammation is elicited by multiple factors, e.g., stratum corneum integrity and vascular reactivity. Their balance determines the ensuing reactions. The induced hyporeactivity may be one of many causes of false negative diagnostic patch tests.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Contact; Erythema; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Rheology; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

The response after application of various concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) on human skin is reported. The induced changes associated variable degrees of roughness and erythema characterizing rough dermatitic skin (RDS). These clinical changes were almost invariably (less than 5% experimental error) associated with increased values of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and increased cutaneous blood flow values (CBFV). A significant positive correlation was found between TEWL and CBFV at all concentrations of SLS. However, values of TEWL higher than those found in 84% of the controls (mean + SD: 8.127 + 2.89 gr/m2/h) were usually significantly correlated with clearcut clinical changes (total clinical score greater than 2 or erythema greater than 1) at all concentrations of SLS, while CBFV (mean + SD of controls: 2.717 + 2.165) which had a wider dispersion, were significantly associated only with erythema after 10% and 1% SLS. This reflects the distinction that is being made between a primary chemical insult, which we identify clinically as roughness and functionally as increased TEWL associated with alterations of barrier function of the skin, and a secondary, delayed inflammatory response, which is clinically recognized as erythema and functionally objectivated by increased CBFV. These results provide a rational basis supporting the use of this experimental model of RDS for testing of preventive and therapeutic efficacy as well as refining the evaluation of tolerance of cosmetics especially designed for use on sensitive skin.

Topics: Adult; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Male; Microcirculation; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water Loss, Insensible

In the present study we induced mild irritant contact reactions by using 0.5% sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) in distilled water or with distilled water in patch tests for 6 or 24 hours. The biopsies were taken at 6, 24, 48 and 96 hours. Light and electron microscopy were used to assess the irritant reactions produced and the monoclonal antibody OKT6 was used for the detection of the LCs. The number of the epidermal OKT6 positive dendritic cells was found to be increased at 48 and 96 hours after the exposure to SLS and at 96 hours in the water patch tests. It is concluded that mild irritant stimuli cause an increase in the LCs (OKT6 positive cells) and thus might influence and modulate the response to subsequent exposures to allergens.

Topics: Adult; Antibodies, Monoclonal; Biopsy; Dermatitis, Contact; Epidermis; Female; Humans; Langerhans Cells; Male; Microscopy, Electron; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Water

Topics: 1-Propanol; Back; Benzalkonium Compounds; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Eugenol; Female; Humans; Irritants; Male; Nickel; Patch Tests; Plants, Toxic; Propanols; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Toxicodendron

In order to investigate the influence of the application time of the day on skin reactions, test persons were treated with various substances inducing experimental inflammation in human skin. Additional tests provided us with data regarding the antiinflammatory activity of topical glucocorticoids on the experimental inflammation as well as the vasoconstrictive activity dependent on the application time of the day. Although all tests showed great individual scattering ranges, statistical evaluation did not reveal any clear evidence for the supposition that pharmacological responses of the skin may be influenced by the hour of the topical application. Thus, it seems not likely that the success of topical treatment of toxic dermatitis by means of glucocorticoids depends on the hour of application.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Betamethasone Valerate; Circadian Rhythm; Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Fluocinolone Acetonide; Humans; Male; Nicotinic Acids; Patch Tests; Pregnadienetriols; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Vasoconstriction

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Allergens; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dimethyl Sulfoxide; Dose-Response Relationship, Immunologic; Female; Guinea Pigs; Inbreeding; Male; Rodent Diseases; Seasons; Sex Factors; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

100 hospitalized patients with skin disease were patch tested with graded dilutions of nonanoic acid (NON), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and benzalkonium chloride (BENZ). Smooth dose-response curves were obtained. The concentration needed to produce a discernible irritant reaction in 50% of the population (ID50) was found to be lower in cases of irritant than of allergic contact dermatitis; this finding warrants further study. Björnberg's observation that it is not possible to predict the strength of the reaction to one irritant by knowing the strength of the reaction to another was confirmed. Benzalkonium chloride caused a high frequency of pustular and/or bullous reactions with scarring as a sequela. It is suggested that this irritant could be replaced by nonanoic acid in experimental studies of topical irritancy, since the test reactions from nonanoic acid were reproducible, easy to read and left no staining or scarring.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Benzalkonium Compounds; Child; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Fatty Acids; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Inflammation was induced on the forearms of volunteers by twenty-four closed patch tests to either the irritant 10% sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or Toxicodendron extract. Each chemical was tested at eight sites on the ventral forearms of each volunteer in order to assess the variability of response among test sites in individual subjects. Inflammation was assessed about 10 minutes after patch tests were removed. The degree of inflammation elicited by both Toxicodendron and SLS was variable among subjects, but variation among individual test sites was much more marked in subjects tested with SLS (p less than 0.002). The marked variability of responses to irritation that occur in any single subject may explain why irritant patch test responses do not reliably identify the irritation-prone individual.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Allergens; Body Surface Area; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Toxicodendron; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Edema; Erythema; Female; Forearm; Humans; Irritants; Male; Patch Tests; Plant Extracts; Plants, Toxic; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Toxicodendron

Patch tests with aqueous solutions of the irritating detergent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) elicit varying degrees of inflammation from subject to subject and from site to site. For an investigation of the causes of this variability, two patch tests with 10% aqueous solutions of SLS were applied to adjacent areas of ventral forearm skin of eighteen volunteers. In one test the water vehicle was allowed to evaporate from the patch test unit before the patches were applied. After 22 hours the patch tests were removed, and 2 hours later the degree of inflammation was graded. Less inflammation was present at the site of the dry patch test in fifteen of eighteen subjects, and the score of inflammation between each pair was significantly less at the dry patch test site (p less than 0.001). These studies show that evaporation of water from aqueous solutions can influence the irritating potential of SLS on human skin.

Topics: Adult; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical; Dermatitis, Contact; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Edema; Erythema; Female; Forearm; Humans; Irritants; Male; Patch Tests; Pharmaceutical Vehicles; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors; Volatilization; Water

Topics: Administration, Topical; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Dermatitis, Contact; Excipients; Female; Humans; Hydrocortisone; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

The skin is more susceptible to irritation when an active eczematous process is present. This reduced threshold to irritation occurs in skin distant from the site of the eczematous skin. Data is presented to demonstrate the appearance of irritant dermatitis to lower concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate during the presence of an allergic contact dermatitis in the guinea pig.

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Drug Hypersensitivity; Female; Guinea Pigs; Patch Tests; Skin; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Minimum eliciting levels of nickel have been estimated in 25 nickel-sensitive subjects, and of chromium in 14 chromium-sensitive subjects by patch tests with aqueous solutions of the respective metals. The minimum level of each metal required to provoke a patch test reaction was considerably greater than that found in fabric washing powder solutions and was in the majority of patients tested of the order of 112 ppm nickel (0.05% nickel sulphate) or 885 ppm hexavalent chromium (0.25% potassium dichromate). One nickel-sensitive subject and one chromium-sensitive subject reacted to 1 ppm of the respective metal. Fabric washing powder did not significantly alter the patch test reaction to nickel sulphate or provoke reactions in nickel- or chromium-sensitive subjects. EDTA significantly reduced the number and severity of patch test reactions to nickel sulphate but not those to potassium dichromate or trivalent chromium.

Topics: Chlorides; Chromates; Chromium; Chromium Compounds; Dermatitis, Contact; Detergents; Eczema; Edetic Acid; Female; Hand Dermatoses; Humans; Male; Nickel; Patch Tests; Potassium Dichromate; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Surface-Active Agents; Water

Allergens eliciting weak positive reactions were retested to ascertain their reproducibility. Weak positive patch test reactions, concomitant to other weak or strong positive reactions, were retested after 3 weeks in 61 patients. 79 reactions were retested; 35 (44.3%) were negative. Allergens which are marginal irritants, e.g., formaldehyde, often gave weak positive reactions which were lost at retesting. In patients without dermatitis but with several strong positive reactions, lost reactions were frequently encountered, suggesting that strong reactions induced a state of hyperirritability. False positive reactions were often found in the proximity of strong reactions. We attempted to develop a nonspecific irritant (sodium lauryl sulfate) as a hyperirritability marker. A correlation between the score of this test and false positive reactions was not found. It is concluded that weak positive reactions should not be accepted as a proof of sensitization. The allergens eliciting these reactions should be retested at a later date.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Diagnosis, Differential; Eczema; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patch Tests; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

It is desirable to use more objective methods than visual scoring for the assessment of skin irritancy reactions. The edema, or fluid accumulation in the exposed skin sites, can be accurately measured by a caliper and this alternative method of assessment is evaluated from different aspects. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and non-anoic acid in different concentrations were applied daily to human and animal (rabbit and guinea pig) skin, and a dose-response relationship established. Higher concentrations of the irritants induced an earlier response. With 5% SLS as the test substance and the increase in skin fold thickness as the single parameter of skin irritancy, the guinea pig was found to be less reactive than rabbit and man. Measurement techniques, reproducibility and advantages and disadvantages with different animal models are discussed.

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Fatty Acids; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Rabbits; Skin Tests; Skinfold Thickness; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Adult; Betaine; Cocos; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Hair Preparations; Humans; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

An animal model for the excited skin syndrome was developed in the guinea pig. Hyperirritability of the skin could be induced by immunization with Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA). This hyperirritability was evident from the enhancement of both patch test reactions to an irritant (sodium lauryl sulfate) and open epicutaneous test reactions to a contact sensitizer (2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene). The skin tests were performed at sites other than those pretreated with FCA. Maximum enhancement was observed in a period 3-5 weeks after FCA immunization. A similar but less marked hyperirritability could be induced by eliciting a localized chronic croton oil dermatitis. The period of hyperirritability induced by FCA or croton oil was preceded by a short period (1-14 days) of depressed skin reactivity.

Topics: Acute Disease; Animals; Chronic Disease; Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Fatty Alcohols; Female; Freund's Adjuvant; Guinea Pigs; Skin; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Drug Evaluation; Humans; Patch Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Groups of guinea pigs were sensitized with a 0.1% solution of dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) by the Draize intracutaneous method. The course of the induction process, the influence of the vehicles used and the extent to which the reactions are amenable to assessment according to objective criteria were examined. The sensitivity of the standardized Draize test was then compared with that of various other sensitization techniques, including: The intracutaneous test with adjuvant (optimization test) The maximization test according to Magnusson & Kligman (1969) The epidermal sensitization test The epidermal sensitization test with prior irritation of the contact site (by croton oil or sodium lauryl sulphate). Comparison of these methods revealed that either the additional application of adjuvant or prior irritation of the contact site augmented the degree of sensitization of DNCB just as greatly as the simultaneous use of adjuvant and prior irritation of the skin, (maximization test). The improved sensitization methods, and in particular the standardized optimization test, may prove to be of particular value for the study of so-called weak allergens.

Topics: Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dinitrochlorobenzene; Erythema; Guinea Pigs; Injections, Intradermal; Nitrobenzenes; Oils; Skin; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Irritant reactions were induced on the forearms of 10 normal subjects with 10% aqueous sodium lauryl sulfate under patch test occlusion for 24 h. Test sites were observed at 24, 26, 28, 30, 48, 72 and 96 h and the degree of inflammation recorded. Inflammation was most prominent at 28 h and decreased in intensity over the time course of the study. Inflammation at 48 and 72 h was similar to when patches were removed. This suggests that inflammatory responses in skin for at least certain irritants like sodium lauryl sulfate do slowly decrease in intensity after 48 h. However, the inflammatory response may initially accelerate after patch test removal and remain intense for at least 48 h. Fading of irritant reactions by 48 or 72 h may not reliably distinguish irritant from allergic patch test reactions. This does not refute the usefulness of a delayed (96 h) reading since inflammation from sodium lauryl sulfate had decreased significantly by this time.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Atopic; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Male; Patch Tests; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Time Factors

Experiments in passive transfer of nickel allergy require highly sensitive guinea pigs and a reliable and technically usable test method. A comparison was made between two sensitization methods, the guinea pig maximization test of MAGNUSSON and KLIGMAN (MK) and a combined injection and painting method devised by POLAK and TURK (PT). Intradermal injection was chosen as test method. The reactions to the test were greater than those of normal animals and the differences were statistically significant. With testing before the start of sensitization it was found difficult to obtain highly sensitive animals (tolerance). PT painting resulted in rather higher sensitivity with Triton X-100 than with sodium lauryl sulphate. In a comparison between the MK and PT methods, no difference in effectiveness was found provided that the animals had not been pretested. Repeated PT injections and paintings caused a further increase of the sensitivity, but the toxicity of nickel is a limiting factor.

Topics: Administration, Topical; Animals; Dermatitis, Contact; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Hypersensitivity; Female; Guinea Pigs; Immune Tolerance; Immunization; Immunization, Passive; Injections, Intradermal; Intradermal Tests; Nickel; Polyethylene Glycols; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Patch tests with three primary irritants were performed in 600 persons with eczema and in 33 healthy controls, The irritants assayed were: croton oil (20%) in mineral oil, thymoquinone (1%) in ethanol and crotonaldehyde (7.5%) plus sodium lauryl sulphate (4%) in aqua dest. The number of positive reactions to croton oil was found to decrease with age, while for thymoquinone and crotonaldehyde and for the total irritant score no age dependence was observed. No significant correlation was found between sensitization to common contact allergens and susceptibility to irritants. The incidence of positive reactions to common allergens proved to increase with age.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Aldehydes; Allergens; Benzoquinones; Child; Child, Preschool; Croton Oil; Crotonates; Dermatitis, Contact; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Irritants; Middle Aged; Mineral Oil; Patch Tests; Quinones; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Acetone; Dermatitis, Contact; Dermatitis, Occupational; Dermatitis, Toxicodendron; Drug Eruptions; Eczema; Humans; Hydrochloric Acid; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Hydroxides; Irritants; Lipids; Nitrates; Permeability; Potassium; Skin; Skin Absorption; Skin Diseases; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Sodium Hydroxide; Solubility; Sweating; Turpentine

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Benzalkonium Compounds; Breast Neoplasms; Croton Oil; Dermatitis, Contact; Female; Humans; Lung Neoplasms; Male; Middle Aged; Neoplasm Metastasis; Neoplasms; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Acute Disease; Adult; Animals; Child; Depression; Dermatitis, Contact; Detergents; Fatty Alcohols; Female; Fever; Guinea Pigs; Headache; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nausea; Norway; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

Topics: Animals; Antibodies; Catheterization; Chemical Precipitation; Dermatitis, Contact; Electrophoresis, Polyacrylamide Gel; Erythrocytes; Hemagglutination Tests; Immunization, Passive; Leukocyte Count; Lymph; Lymph Nodes; Lymphatic System; Lymphocytes; Nitrobenzenes; Radioimmunoassay; Skin Tests; Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate; Swine; Time Factors; Tritium