Contact hypersensitivity to some perfume materials

Some recent publications concerning perfume contact sensitivity are briefly reviewed. Japanese workers have identified some perfume sensitizers and have devised an allergen replacement system. Costus absolute of perfumery has been found to sensitize guinea-pig and man; sesquiterpene lactones are responsible for cross-sensitivity with some other plant products. Balsam of Peru is a useful screen for perfume sensitivity; terpenoids of balsams require study.