Dogger bank itch. 2. An allergic contact dermatitis

Dogger Bank Itch is an allergic contact dermatitis representing a severe occupational hazard among trawlermen of the Dogger Bank Area in the North Sea. Allergic sensitivity is acquired following exposure to the marine bryozoan Alcyonidium gelatinosum. The allergen has been identified as (2-hydroxyethyl) dimethylsulfoxonium ion. The isolation, structure determination and synthesis of the allergen is discussed.