Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 22, 2026
08:05
Murine Model of Allergen Induced Asthma
Published on: May 14, 2012
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[Asthma among mink workers]
Berit Grøntved1, Ole Carstensen, Rolf Petersen
1Arbejdsmedicinsk Klinik, Slagelse Sygehus, Ingemannsvej 18, 4200 Slagelse.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|October 9, 2014
Summary
Two cases of asthma in mink workers suggest a higher risk. One farmer showed allergy to mink urine, while another worker experienced asthma when handling mink furs, indicating occupational asthma potential.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Pulmonary medicine
- Veterinary science
Background:
- Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting millions globally.
- Occupational asthma is triggered by workplace exposures, often leading to significant morbidity.
- Mink farming involves close contact with animals and their byproducts, posing potential respiratory risks.
Observation:
- A mink farmer with difficult-to-treat asthma showed a positive histamine release test to mink urine.
- A mink farm worker experienced an asthma attack specifically when handling mink furs.
- Peak flow monitoring indicated a work-related asthma pattern in the second case, despite no clear allergic markers.
Findings:
- The presented cases suggest a potential link between mink farming and the development of asthma.
- Exposure to mink urine and handling mink furs may act as occupational asthma triggers.
- Diagnostic challenges exist, as allergic sensitization is not always evident in occupational asthma.
Implications:
- These findings highlight the need for increased awareness of occupational asthma risks in the mink farming industry.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific allergens and mechanisms involved.
- Implementing workplace safety measures may be crucial for preventing asthma in mink workers.
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