Urushiol Patch Test Using the T.R.U.E. TEST System.

Background: Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis in North America. Although extensive efforts have been made to develop therapies that prevent and treat allergic contact dermatitis to these plants, there lacks an entirely effective method, besides complete avoidance. Efforts to develop a more effective preventive therapy, such as a vaccine, are ongoing.

Spectrometric analysis of mercury content in 549 skin-lightening products: is mercury toxicity a hidden global health hazard?

Background: Cosmetic skin lightening is practiced worldwide. Mercury is a well-documented melanotoxin added to some lightening products. However, mercury can cause many dermatologic, renal, and neurologic problems.

Assessment of nickel release from earrings randomly purchased in China and Thailand using the dimethylglyoxime test.

Background: China and Thailand produce large amounts of jewellery that are sold domestically and abroad.

Objective: To identify nickel release and metal content in earrings purchased in China and Thailand.

Methods: A total of 557 earrings were randomly purchased from vendors in 11 markets located in Beijing, Chengdu, Bangkok, Patong Beach, and Hat Yai.

Prevalence of type I natural rubber latex allergy among dental hygienists.

Purpose: Oral health care professionals have been shown to be at risk for developing a type I allergy to natural rubber latex (NRL). The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of this allergy in dental hygienists.

Methods: Participants attending the 2000-2002 American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) national meetings were screened for type I allergies to NRL using skin prick testing, symptom assessment, and health history.

Occupation-related allergies in dentistry.

Background: Allergies to natural rubber latex (NRL) were unknown in dentistry until 1987. That changed with the publication of a report documenting NRL-based anaphylaxis in a dental worker. This case and others prompted regulatory and manufacturing changes in rubber products and increased awareness throughout the profession.

Occupational allergens in dentistry.

Purpose Of Review: Dental professionals and their physicians frequently do not recognize, accurately diagnose or appropriately manage occupational allergies. Dental allergen identification, diagnostics and practical avoidance strategies are summarized in this review.

Recent Findings: Methacrylates, natural rubber latex proteins, rubber glove allergens, and glutaraldehyde are the predominant allergens in dentistry.

Allergic contact dermatitis in dental professionals: effective diagnosis and treatment.

Background: Like other health care workers, dental professionals are at risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis, or ACD, after exposure to allergenic chemicals. Common allergens include antimicrobials, preservatives, rubber additives and methacrylates.

Case Description: The authors describe an orthodontic assistant with severe skin disease, whose symptoms included redness, cracking and bleeding that persisted for 10 years.

Management of dental patients with allergies to natural rubber latex.

Reports of serious allergic reaction to natural rubber latex (NRL) are not uncommon in dentistry. The prevalence of Type I allergies in high-risk patient groups can range as high as 17% for health care professionals and over 50% in patients with spina bifida. A Type IV allergy to NRL chemical additives, also known as allergic contact dermatitis, is common in health care professions.