Assessing the effects of an allergy to methyldibromo glutaronitrile and phenoxyethanol with reference to the reduction in earning capacity [Begründung für die beurteilung der auswirkung einer allergie gegenüber methyldibromoglutaronitril und phenoxyethanol (MDBGN und PE) im rahmen der MdE-bewertung]

Abstract

The following recommendation serves for assessing the impact of an occupationally acquired contact allergy to methyldibromo glutaronitrile and phenoxyethanol on the reduction of the earning capacity in cases of occupational skin disease according to No. 5101 of the German list of occupational diseases. The substance combination is known under the trade name Euxyl® K 400 as a liquid disinfectant mixture, which was in use in cosmetic and body care products of the leave-on and the rinse-off type. In April 2008, the use of methyldibromo glutaronitril was prohibited within the European Union, and Euxyl® K 400 has stopped to be sold within the EU ever since. Phenoxyethanol is still in use as disinfectant in cosmetics and as ingredient of solvents in the technical area. Occupational sensitizations are observed in health care (cosmeticians, pedicurists, elderly care nurses, massage therapists, and physiotherapists) and in the technical area (engineers, mechanics, and locksmiths). As both substances are seen as avoidable, and their relevance as declining, the effects of an allergy against methyldibromo glutaronitrile and/or phenoxyethanol are considered as "low grade". © 2009 Dustri-Verlag Dr. Karl Feistle.