Panels of allergens for specific occupations

Contact dermatitis is the inflammation and irritation of the skin after contact with an irritating substance. The patch test is used to detect sensitivity to a chemical substance. A potential allergen is applied to the skin on the back of the patient, and held in place by a patch for up to 48 hours. The patch is then removed, the skin is observed for 20 minutes, and re-examined one to several days later. If the person is allergic to the substance being tested, the skin below the patch becomes reddened. The number of positive results from the patch test is proportional to the number of substances tested, which is limited by the amount of space for testing on the patient's back. However, the number of substances that are to be tested can be narrowed down by examining the person's daily environment, such as the work environment. The search for potential allergens is made easier by laws that require labelling or listing of ingredients in products commonly used or exposed to the public. 'Banks' or lists of allergens aimed at specific occupational groups, such as cosmetologists, machinists, dental personnel, carpenters, and photographers, are described. Such lists are not static but change frequently, and allergens are often removed when their hazards are recognized. The lists of possible allergens for workplace environments must be constantly reviewed and updated in order to provide adequate and inclusive patch tests. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)