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Occupational allergic contact dermatitis caused by nitroglycerin.
L Kanerva1, R Laine, R Jolanki
1Section of Dermatology, Institute of Occupational Health, Helsinki, Finland.
Contact Dermatitis
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Nitroglycerin can cause allergic contact dermatitis in individuals exposed occupationally, including through explosives and transdermal patches. Protective gloves are recommended to prevent skin contact and sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Irritant contact dermatitis from nitroglycerin has been documented since the late 19th century.
- Nitroglycerin is recognized as a contact allergen.
- Recent use of transdermal nitroglycerin delivery systems for angina has led to sensitization cases.
Observation:
- This study describes 4 patients with allergic contact dermatitis due to occupational exposure to nitroglycerin in explosives.
- An additional patient sensitized by a transdermal nitroplaster is also presented.
- Patch testing with dynamite and its components (nitroglycerin, ethylene glycol dinitrate, dinitrotoluene) elicited allergic reactions.
Findings:
- Patch testing confirmed allergic reactions to nitroglycerin and related explosive components.
- Suggested patch test concentrations are: nitroglycerin 0.5-2% in petrolatum, and dinitrotoluene and ethylene glycol dinitrate 0.1-0.5% in petrolatum.
Implications:
- Individuals with occupational exposure to nitroglycerin should utilize protective gloves to prevent skin contact.
- Those sensitized to nitroglycerin should wear disposable protective gloves when handling explosives to avoid further reactions.