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Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from 2,3‐epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTMAC) and Kathon® LX in a starch modification factory
Author(s) -
Estlander Tuula,
Jolanki Ritta,
Kanerva Lasse
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
contact dermatitis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.524
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1600-0536
pISSN - 0105-1873
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1997.tb00268.x
Subject(s) - contact dermatitis , sensitization , allergic contact dermatitis , allergy , hand dermatitis , dermatology , contact allergy , patch test , ammonium chloride , chemistry , medicine , organic chemistry , immunology
2.3‐epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTMAO is used in the production of cationic starch (CS) for the paper industry. It has been shown to be a sensitizer in guinea pigs, but eases of human sensitization are few. 4 workers were previously sensitized to the substance in a Finnish plant. This report describes 3 process men from another plant examined because of recurring dermatitis. IS workers were involved in production, and had free access in ill work sites. 3 process men. whose work involved drying the CS, had dermatitis, although they had only occasional contact with the cationizing chemical. 2 were already verified to be allergic to EPTMAC' and had had variable dermatitis for 8–12 years. One had had dermatitis on his lace for 1 year. Patch testing with a dilution series (1%, 0.5%. 0.2%, 0.1% pet.) confirmed their allergy to the cationizing chemical containing EPTMAC, but tests with CS were negative. In addition, 2 had contact allergy to C1+ Me‐isothiazolinone from contact with Kathon® LX used us a slimicide in the process. In longstanding (years) recurrent dermatitis, re‐examination of patients with verified exposure history and skin tests is necessary. In line with our previous study, sampling the process materials, maintenance work and contamination of work sites and gloves caused sensitization. The results also confirm that EPTMAC is a strong human contact sensitizer. 0.2%–0.5% pure EPTMAC in pet. seem to be the optimal patch test concentration.