Prevalence of occupational asthma and immunologic sensitization to guar gum among employees at a carpet-manufacturing plant

J L Malo ¹, A Cartier , J L'Archevêque

⁰Department of Chest Medicine, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur, Montreal, Canada.

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology +

|

October 1, 1990

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Occupational exposure to guar gum can cause allergic reactions, including rhinitis and asthma. This study found significant allergic responses and bronchial hyperresponsiveness in carpet manufacturing plant employees exposed to guar gum.

Area Of Science

Occupational medicine
Allergology
Pulmonology

Background

Guar gum, a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide, is utilized in various industrial applications, including carpet manufacturing.
Occupational exposure to guar gum has been anecdotally linked to respiratory symptoms.
Understanding the prevalence and mechanisms of guar gum-induced respiratory issues is crucial for workplace safety.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the prevalence of occupational rhinitis and asthma associated with guar gum exposure in a carpet manufacturing plant.
To assess immunological responses, including skin reactivity and specific antibodies, to guar gum.
To evaluate bronchial hyperresponsiveness in relation to guar gum exposure.

Main Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 177 employees at a carpet manufacturing plant using guar gum.
Methods included questionnaires, skin prick tests with common allergens and guar gum, and serum analysis for IgE and IgG antibodies to guar gum.
Methacholine inhalation tests were performed to assess bronchial hyperresponsiveness, with specific inhalation challenges in select individuals.

Main Results

A significant proportion of employees reported symptoms suggestive of occupational rhinitis (36%) and asthma (23%).
Immediate skin reactivity to guar gum was observed in 5% of subjects, and 8.3% had detectable serum IgE antibodies.
Five subjects exhibited significant bronchial hyperresponsiveness and positive skin reactions to guar gum; four underwent specific inhalation challenges.

Conclusions

Occupational exposure to guar gum in carpet manufacturing is associated with a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms.
Immunological evidence, including skin sensitization and specific IgE, supports a role for guar gum in occupational allergies.
The findings highlight the need for implementing control measures to minimize guar gum exposure in industrial settings.

Related Concept Videos