[Group-allergic reaction spectrum and sensitization potency of benzylisothiocyanate]

Allergenicity of benzylisothiocyanate and group-allergic cross reactions. Comparative patch-test series made in pateints suffering from contact dermatitis induced by Sulbentin (Dibenzthion)-antimycotics and in guinea pigs, experimentally sensitized to benzylisothiocyanate (BITC), showed: BITC is a potent contact sensitizer and the real hapten in cases of Sulbentin-allergy. Of special importance in this molecule is the benzyl-group. Neither 4,4-diphenylmethandiisocyanate and isophorondiisocyanate (substances used in polyurethane production) nor the closely related methylisothiocyanate (decomposition product of some potato-selecting agents) produced any groupallergic cross reactions in the above-mentioned patients and guinea pigs.