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[Allergic contact eczemas caused by selenite].
G Richter1, U Heidelbach, I Heidenbluth
1Klinik für Hautkrankheiten, Medizinischen Akademie Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden.
Dermatosen in Beruf Und Umwelt. Occupation and Environment
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Barium and sodium selenite exposure in the glass industry caused skin and eye irritation or allergic reactions in four workers. Patch testing with sodium selenite is effective for diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Industrial exposure to chemicals like barium and sodium selenite can pose risks to worker health.
- The glass industry involves processes that may lead to contact with various chemical agents.
Observation:
- Four employees in the glass industry experienced adverse health effects following exposure to barium and sodium selenite.
- Symptoms included dermatitis and/or conjunctivitis.
Findings:
- Two cases were attributed to irritant contact dermatitis.
- Two cases presented as allergic contact dermatitis, with some showing papulo-follicular morphology.
- Sodium selenite at 0.1% concentration in petrolatum proved suitable for patch testing.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis from industrial chemical exposure.
- Suggests sodium selenite as a relevant agent for diagnostic patch testing in suspected cases.
- Emphasizes the need for workplace safety measures in the glass industry to prevent chemical-induced skin and eye conditions.