Guinea pig maximization tests with formaldehyde releasers. Results from two laboratories

The guinea pig maximization test was used to evaluate the sensitizing potential of formaldehyde and 6 formaldehyde releasers (Forcide 78, Germall 115, Grotan BK, Grotan OX, KM 200 and Preventol D2). The tests were carried out in 2 laboratories (Copenhagen and Stockholm), and although we intended the procedures to be the same, discrepancies were observed, possibly due to the use of different animal strains, test concentrations and vehicles. The sensitizing potential was in general found to be stronger in Stockholm compared to Copenhagen: formaldehyde sensitized 50% of the guinea pigs in Copenhagen and 95% in Stockholm. For Grotan BK, the corresponding rates were 20% and 74%. Forcide 78, KM 200 and Preventol D2 sensitized 20% to 25% of the animals in Copenhagen, while Germall 115 and Grotan OX sensitized 60% to 70% of the animals in Stockholm.