[Detection of specific IgE antibodies in veterinarians with contact urticaria]

We report on veterinarians showing itching, swelling, and urticaria on hands and arms after contact with amniotic fluid of cows and/or pigs. Scratch tests with the corresponding fluid gave positive results. RAST investigations were done with self-prepared allergen discs. In all 6 cases, the RAST on amniotic fluid was positive, correlating well with the results of the skin tests. RAST tests on sera from the cattle were positive, too, whereas tests on the epithelia remained negative. Our findings show that the allergen causing contact urticaria is a compound of amniotic fluid and serum but not of the epithelia of these animals. Thus we can conclude that sensitized veterinarians do not have to avoid all contact with these species, but we recommend special protection.