Contact allergy to components of metalworking fuids. IVDK data 2005 - 2009 [Kontaktallergie gegen Bestandteile von Kühlschmierstoffen: IVDK-Daten der Jahre 2005 - 2009]

Abstract

Background: In 2002, the German Contact Dermatitis Research Group (DKG) has established two metalworking fluids (MWF) patch test series with currently and previously used components, respectively. Based on patch test data from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK), these test series have been revised and shortened in the beginning of 2005. Additional MWF allergens were comprised in other DKG patch test series. Patch testing with these series was recommended in patients concerned. Objective: Revision of the diagnostic usefulness of the revised MWF series and DKG patch test recommendations. Material and methods: Retrospective analysis of data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK), 2005 to 2009. Results: During the study period, 803 metalworkers were patch tested because of suspected MWF dermatitis. Among the current MWF allergens, monoethanolamine ranked first with 14% positive reactions. Formaldehyde releasers elicited 3 - 8% positive reactions, with ∼ 30% concomitant reactions to formaldehyde. Sensitization to other MWF components was observed similarly frequently like in the years before. Among the formerly used MWF components, positive reactions to Bioban P 1487® were seen in 5% of the patients tested. However, the allergological relevance remained unclear in most cases. No positive reactions were seen to the formerly used preservatives chlorocresol and chloroxylenol. Among the MWF allergens contained in the DKG baseline series, colophony was the most frequent allergen (9% positive reactions) followed by methylchloroisothiazolinone/ methylisothiazolinone (4%) and formaldehyde (3.4%). The frequency of sensitization to potential MWF allergens in the DKG preservative series and DKG ointment base series was not increased. Conclusion: Based on these results, the DKG decided in 2010 to compile relevant MWF allergens in one single MWF patch test series instead of the former two separate ones. The new DKG MWF test series is to be tested in addition to the DKG baseline series. Obligatory patch testing with the DKG preservative series and ointment base series is no longer recommended. © 2013 Dustri-Verlag Dr. Karl Feistle.