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Epoxy resin allergy from microscopy immersion oil
Y C Lee1, D L Gordon, L A Gordon
1Department of Dermatology, Flinders Medical Centre, South Australia, Australia.
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|November 26, 1999
Summary
Occupational exposure to a reformulated microscopy immersion oil caused allergic contact dermatitis in a laboratory technician. Patch testing confirmed a strong positive reaction to epoxy resin, identifying the causative agent.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Allergology
Background:
- Occupational contact dermatitis is a significant concern in laboratory settings.
- Microscopy immersion oils are routinely used in bacteriology and histology.
- Chemical formulations of laboratory reagents can change, potentially altering their allergenic properties.
Observation:
- A bacteriology technical officer developed symptoms of burning pruritus and urticarial-like lesions.
- Lesions were localized to the face and forearms, areas prone to direct contact.
- The onset of symptoms coincided with the introduction of a re-formulated microscopy immersion oil.
Findings:
- Patch testing revealed a strong positive reaction to epoxy resin.
- Epoxy resin was identified as the likely sensitizer in the new immersion oil formulation.
- This suggests a change in the oil's composition led to occupational allergic contact dermatitis.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of identifying allergens in occupational settings, even in seemingly inert substances like immersion oils.
- Emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding changes in chemical formulations of laboratory supplies.
- Suggests that epoxy resin components in reformulated microscopy immersion oils can cause allergic contact dermatitis in exposed personnel.