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08:02
A Mouse Ear Model for Allergic Contact Dermatitis Evaluation
Published on: March 24, 2023
Occupational contact allergy caused by rubber gloves--nothing has changed
Johannes Geier1, Holger Lessmann, Vera Mahler
1Information Network of Department of Dermatology, University of Goettingen, 37075 Goettingen, Germany. jgeier@gwdg.de
Contact Dermatitis
|July 6, 2012
Summary
Allergic contact dermatitis from rubber gloves remains common, with thiurams and dithiocarbamates as frequent culprits. Current sensitization patterns show no decline, highlighting the need for better allergen labeling and reduced accelerator content in gloves.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Allergology
Background:
- Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from rubber gloves is frequently caused by sensitization to accelerators.
- Thiurams and dithiocarbamates are the most common allergens identified in these cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current patterns of allergens responsible for occupational ACD linked to rubber glove use.
- To analyze trends in sensitization frequencies over time.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patch testing data from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) between 2002 and 2010.
- Inclusion of patients with occupational dermatitis specifically tested for suspected glove allergy.
Main Results:
- Out of 3448 patients with occupational dermatitis due to suspected glove allergy, healthcare workers formed the largest group (n=1058).
- Sensitization rates included 13% to thiurams, 3.5% to dithiocarbamates, 3% to mercaptobenzothiazole, and 3.0% to 1,3-diphenylguanidine.
- No significant time trend in reaction frequencies was observed over the study period.
Conclusions:
- The sensitization pattern for rubber glove allergens has remained consistent compared to previous analyses.
- There is an ongoing need for clear allergen declaration on glove packaging.
- Development of gloves with lower accelerator content is recommended, particularly for healthcare settings.
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