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An outbreak of phytophotodermatitis due to celery
E Finkelstein1, U Afek, E Gross
1Department of Dermatology, Soroka Medical Center of Kupat Holim, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
International Journal of Dermatology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Celery harvest workers experienced a phytophotodermatitis outbreak due to high psoralen levels in celery. Late harvesting and sun exposure exacerbated the condition, highlighting occupational risks.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Health
- Plant Science
Background:
- Celery contains psoralens, photosensitizing compounds that can cause skin reactions upon exposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation.
- An outbreak of phytophotodermatitis affected 11 workers during a celery harvest in southern Israel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the trigger factors behind an outbreak of phytophotodermatitis among celery harvest workers.
- To quantify psoralen levels in harvested celery and assess environmental conditions.
Main Methods:
- Investigated trigger factors through worker interviews on working conditions.
- Quantified total psoralen levels in celery samples using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
- Measured ambient UVA radiation levels.
Main Results:
- Celery from southern Israel had significantly higher psoralen levels (84 µg/g f.wt.) compared to northern celery (35 µg/g f.wt.).
- Subsequent year's southern celery showed reduced psoralen levels (26 µg/g f.wt.).
- Risk factors included fair skin, lack of protective clothing, moist hands, and sunny weather conditions.
Conclusions:
- Multiple factors contributed to the phytophotodermatitis outbreak.
- Late-season harvesting in southern Israel was identified as the cause of elevated psoralen levels in celery, leading to the outbreak.