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Published on: September 27, 2017
Occupational contact allergy to formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers
Kristiina Aalto-Korte1, O Kuuliala, K Suuronen
1Control of Hypersensitivity Diseases, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH), FI-00250, Helsinki, Finland. kristiina.aalto-korte@ttl.fi
Formaldehyde allergy is common, often from formaldehyde-releasing products. Occupational exposure, particularly in metalworking and cosmetics, is a significant cause of sensitization.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Allergology
Background:
- Formaldehyde allergy is prevalent, frequently caused by formaldehyde-releasing biocides in consumer products.
- Identifying sources of sensitization is crucial for managing allergic contact dermatitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patch test reaction patterns to formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing compounds.
- To investigate the primary sources of formaldehyde sensitization.
Main Methods:
- Screening of patch test files at the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health.
- Review of records for 99 patients with contact allergy to formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing compounds (2001-2007).
Main Results:
- 60 new formaldehyde sensitizations were identified, with 25 considered occupational.
- Metalworking fluids, creams, and liquid soaps were common sources of occupational sensitization.
- 79% of formaldehyde-allergic patients showed reactions to formaldehyde-releasing compounds.
Conclusions:
- Occupational formaldehyde allergy is common in various professions, including metalworkers and hairdressers.
- Exposure to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in products like liquid soaps is a frequent cause.
- Contact allergy to formaldehyde releasers without concurrent formaldehyde allergy is uncommon.
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