Gum Arabic as a Cause of Occupational Allergy. (19th May 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Viinanen, Arja; Salokannel, Maija; Lammintausta, Kaija
• Other Names: Beezhold Donald H. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of allergy. Volume 2011(2011)
• Publication Date: 2011-05-19
• Subjects: Allergy -- Periodicals; Immunologic diseases -- Periodicals; Allergy and Immunology; Hypersensitivity; Immune System Diseases; Allergy; Immunologic diseases; Electronic journals; Periodical; Periodicals; 616.97
• DOI: 10.1155/2011/841508
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1687-9783

Abstract

Abstract : Background . Gum arabic is a potential sensitizer in food industry. Methods . We examined 11 candy factory workers referred to examinations due to respiratory and skin symptoms paying attention to exposure and sensitization to gum arabic. Skin tests, pulmonary function tests, and respiratory provocation tests were carried out as indicated by the symptoms and findings. Results . Occupational asthma, caused by gum arabic was diagnosed in 4/11 candy factory workers and two of them had also occupational contact urticaria and one had occupational rhinitis. One of them had oral symptoms associated with ingestion of products containing gum arabic. Conclusions . Airborne exposure to gum arabic may cause sensitization leading to allergic rhinitis, asthma, and urticaria.