Occupational Allergy

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Jolanta Walusiakskorupa - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • allergen specific ige to recombinant latex allergens in Occupational Allergy diagnostics
    Journal of Occupational Health, 2019
    Co-Authors: Ewa Nowakowskaświrta, Marta Wiszniewska, Jolanta Walusiakskorupa
    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVES: Specific challenge tests (SICs) are considered reference tests for allergic Occupational diseases diagnosis. However, in numerous cases, SICs cannot be carried out in the diagnosis of Allergy to latex due to the risk of generalized reactions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of sIgE determination to recombinant latex allergens in diagnostics of Occupational respiratory Allergy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study group comprised 44 healthcare workers (HCW) suspected of suffering from Occupational respiratory Allergy to latex (they underwent a physical examination, skin-prick tests (SPTs) to common and latex allergens, spirometry and SIC) and 17 controls not Occupationally exposed to latex, with a positive sIgE against latex. Each serum was tested for allergen-specific IgE to aeroallergens, latex, eight recombinant latex allergens and CCD-markers. RESULTS: Specific IgE against Hev b5, 6.01, and 6.02 were significantly more frequently detected in HCWs and their mean serum levels were higher compared with the control group. In 26 HCWs with Occupational asthma (OA), sensitization to Hev b5, Hev b6.01, Hev b6.02 was significantly more frequent than in 18 HCWs with work-exacerbated asthma (WEA); they had positive results SPT to latex significantly more frequently in comparison with subjects with WEA. CONCLUSIONS: Test for recombinant latex allergens is much more accurate in recognition of latex Allergy than test for latex extract, which seems to produce false-positive results in patients with pollen Allergy. The measurements of sIgE against recombinant latex allergens Hev b 6.01, 6.02, 5, and 8 are useful in differentiating OA from WEA.

  • allergen specific ige to recombinant latex allergens in Occupational Allergy diagnostics
    Journal of Occupational Health, 2019
    Co-Authors: Ewa Nowakowskaświrta, Marta Wiszniewska, Jolanta Walusiakskorupa
    Abstract:

    Objectives Specific challenge tests (SICs) are considered reference tests for allergic Occupational diseases diagnosis. However, in numerous cases, SICs cannot be carried out in the diagnosis of Allergy to latex due to the risk of generalized reactions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of sIgE determination to recombinant latex allergens in diagnostics of Occupational respiratory Allergy. Materials and methods The study group comprised 44 healthcare workers (HCW) suspected of suffering from Occupational respiratory Allergy to latex (they underwent a physical examination, skin-prick tests (SPTs) to common and latex allergens, spirometry and SIC) and 17 controls not Occupationally exposed to latex, with a positive sIgE against latex. Each serum was tested for allergen-specific IgE to aeroallergens, latex, eight recombinant latex allergens and CCD-markers. Results Specific IgE against Hev b5, 6.01, and 6.02 were significantly more frequently detected in HCWs and their mean serum levels were higher compared with the control group. In 26 HCWs with Occupational asthma (OA), sensitization to Hev b5, Hev b6.01, Hev b6.02 was significantly more frequent than in 18 HCWs with work-exacerbated asthma (WEA); they had positive results SPT to latex significantly more frequently in comparison with subjects with WEA. Conclusions Test for recombinant latex allergens is much more accurate in recognition of latex Allergy than test for latex extract, which seems to produce false-positive results in patients with pollen Allergy. The measurements of sIgE against recombinant latex allergens Hev b 6.01, 6.02, 5, and 8 are useful in differentiating OA from WEA.

  • Occupational Allergy to squid loligo vulgaris
    Occupational Medicine, 2013
    Co-Authors: Marta Wiszniewska, Diana Tymoszuk, Alicja Paswyroślak, Ewa Nowakowskaświrta, Dorota Chomiczewskaskora, Cezary Palczynski, Jolanta Walusiakskorupa
    Abstract:

    Occupational Allergy from exposure to squid has been rarely described, mainly as contact dermatitis or urticaria. Our report presents the first case of Occupational asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and contact urticaria to squid in a 33-year-old seafood production worker, with documented increased eosinophilia in the nasal and tear fluids after specific inhalation challenge test (SICT) with squid. IgE-mediated sensitization to squid was confirmed by positive skin prick test and opened skin test with squid extract. SICT demonstrated a direct and significant link between the exposure to squid and the allergic response from the respiratory system and conjunctiva.

  • eaaci position paper skin prick testing in the diagnosis of Occupational type i allergies
    Allergy, 2013
    Co-Authors: V Van Kampen, Jolanta Walusiakskorupa, G Moscato, Santiago Quirce, F De Blay, Ilenia Folletti, P Kobierski, M Olivieri, Joaquin Sastre, M Raulfheimsoth
    Abstract:

    Skin prick testing (SPT) in combination with the clinical history of the patient is one important step in the diagnosis of IgE-mediated Occupational allergies. However, skin test performance is related to the quality of allergen extracts. The present consensus document was prepared by an EAACI Task Force consisting of an expert panel of allergologists and Occupational physicians from Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Austria, and Poland. All members of the panel were also involved in the data collection within the European multicentre study STADOCA (Standard diagnosis for Occupational Allergy). The aim of this Task Force was the assessment of the quality of commercially available SPT solutions for selected Occupational allergens under standardized procedure conditions in different European centres and institutes of Occupational Medicine. The data evaluation shows a wide variability among SPT solutions and also indicates that the sensitivity of several SPT solutions is low. Therefore, improvement and standardization of SPT solutions for Occupational allergens is highly recommended. Clinical practitioners should also not presume that their SPT solutions are fully reliable. The main objective of the document is to issue consensus suggestions for the use of SPT with Occupational allergens based on the European multicentre study STADOCA, on existing scientific evidence and the expertise of a panel of allergologists.

  • etiology determinants diagnostics and prophylaxis of Occupational allergic respiratory diseases in hairdressers
    Medycyna Pracy, 2011
    Co-Authors: Aleksandra Golinskazach, Patrycja Krawczykszulc, Jolanta Walusiakskorupa
    Abstract:

    Hairdressers are Occupationally exposed to many substances both, allergizing and irritating. The continuous development of hairdressing services brings about new risks. The most important allergens are: persulfates (ammonium and potassium), paraphenylenediamine, and latex. A growing number of Occupational allergens in the work environment of hairdresses, providing that most of them are low weight allergens, may cause some diagnostic problems. Health risks related with haidressing occupation, have prompted the researchers to pay more attention to risk factors of Occupational Allergy. Owing to the fact, that first morbid symptoms may occur very early, even during the apprenticeship in a hairdressing school, it is very important to indentify health risks, which can be useful in predicting the onset of Occupational Allergy and in developing effective prevention methods. The most common allergens at the hairdressers' workplace, risk factors, diagnostics of Occupational asthma and rhinitis, as well as the prevention of these diseases are reviewed in this publication.

Andreas L. Lopata - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • berufsallergien verursacht durch fisch und schalentiere verbesserung der arbeitsbedingungen in der fisch und meeresfruchte verarbeitenden industrie sind erforderlich an overview of Occupational Allergy to fish and shellfish towards improved management of seafood processing workers
    Allergologie, 2018
    Co-Authors: Sandip D Kamath, Andreas L. Lopata
    Abstract:

    Berufliche Allergie und beruflich erworbenes Asthma stellen schwerwiegende Erkrankungen dar und konnen auch Beschaftigte in der Fisch- und Meeresfruchte-Industrie betreffen. Zu unterscheiden sind dabei zwei Hauptgruppen von Allergieauslosern: Fisch und Schalentiere (Krustentiere (Crustecea) und Weichtiere (Mollusken)). Fur beide Gruppen wurden bereits einige allergene Proteine identifiziert, aber nur wenige wurden auf molekularer Ebene charakterisiert. Das Majorallergen der Fische scheint Parvalbumin zu sein, das der Krustentiere Tropomyosin. Neben weiteren IgE-bindenden Proteinen, die identifiziert wurden, fanden sich auch andere mit Meeresfruchten bzw. Fischen assoziierte Bestandteile (z.B. Parasiten), deren molekularen Eigenschaften aber noch nicht im Detail beschrieben wurden. Luftgetragene Allergene von Fischen bzw. Meeresfruchten konnen mit immunologischen und chemischen Methoden identifiziert werden, wobei eine Quantifizierung ab 10 ng/m³ moglich ist. Der folgende Artikel gibt einen Uberblick uber die industriellen Verarbeitungsprozesse von Fischen und Meeresfruchten, die Tatigkeiten mit hohem Risiko sowie uber personliche und umweltbedingte Risikofaktoren fur berufsbezogene Atemwegs- und Hautallergien in diesem Arbeitsbereich. Weiterhin werden die allergenen Proteine und die pathophysiologischen Mechanismen genauer beschrieben und daruber hinaus diagnostische und praventive Ansatze zum Management von arbeitsbedingten Allergien bei der Verarbeitung von Fisch und Meeresfruchten vorgestellt. Occupational Allergy and asthma are serious adverse health consequence affecting seafood-processing workers. Allergic reactions are directed to two major seafood groups: fish and shellfish, with the latter group comprising crustaceans and mollusks. Several allergenic proteins have been identified in these different groups, but few have been characterized on a molecular level. Parvalbumin appears to be the major fish allergen, while tropomyosin is the major crustacean allergen. Other IgE binding proteins have also been identified as well as other seafood-associated agents (e.q., parasites), although their molecular nature have not been characterized in detail. Aerosolized allergens can be identified and quantified using immunological and chemical approaches, detecting levels as low as 10 ng/m³. This review outlines the high-risk working populations, work processes, as well as host and environmental exposure risk factors for Occupational respiratory and skin allergies. It also provides insights into the allergenic proteins as well as the pathophysiological mechanisms implicated. Diagnostic and preventive approaches are outlined in managing work-related Allergy associated with seafood processing.

  • airborne seafood allergens as a cause of Occupational Allergy and asthma
    Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 2013
    Co-Authors: Andreas L. Lopata, Mohamed F. Jeebhay
    Abstract:

    Occupational Allergy and asthma is a serious adverse health outcome affecting seafood-processing workers. Allergic reactions are directed to two major seafood groups: fish and shellfish, with the latter group comprising crustaceans and molluscs. Several allergenic proteins have been identified in these different groups, but few have been characterised on a molecular level. Parvalbumin appears to be the major fish allergen, while tropomyosin the major crustacean allergen. Other IgE-binding proteins have also been identified in molluscs and other seafood-associated agents (e.g. Anisakis sp), although their molecular nature has not been characterised. Aerosolised allergens can be identified and quantified using immunological and chemical approaches, detecting levels as low as 10 ng/m(3). This contemporary review discusses interesting and recent findings in the area of Occupational seafood Allergy including high-risk occupations, environmental risk factors for airborne exposures, major and minor allergens implicated and innovative approaches in diagnosing and managing Occupational Allergy and asthma associated with seafood processing.

  • Occupational Allergy and asthma among salt water fish processing workers
    American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2008
    Co-Authors: Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Roslynn Baatjies, Andreas L. Lopata, Mary E Miller, Eric D Bateman, Marius Smuts, Thomas G. Robins
    Abstract:

    Background Fish processing is a common economic activity in Southern Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and host determinants of allergic symptoms, allergic sensitization, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and asthma among workers processing saltwater fish. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 594 currently employed workers in two processing plants involved in pilchard canning and fishmeal processing. A modified European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was used. Skin prick tests (SPT) used extracts of common airborne allergens, fresh fish (pilchard, anchovy, maasbanker, mackerel, red eye) and fishmeal. Spirometry and methacholine challenge tests (MCTs; tidal breathing method) used ATS guidelines. Results Work-related ocular-nasal symptoms (26%) were more common than asthma symptoms (16%). The prevalence of atopy was 36%, while 7% were sensitized to fish species and 26% had NSBH (PC20 � 8m g/ml or� 12% increase in FEV1 post-bronchodilator). The prevalence of probable Occupational asthma was 1.8% and fish allergic rhino-conjunctivitis 2.6%. Women were more likely to report work-related asthma symptoms (OR ¼ 1.94) and have NSBH (OR ¼ 3.09), while men were more likely to be sensitized to fish (OR ¼ 2.06) and have airway obstruction (OR ¼ 4.17). Atopy (OR ¼ 3.16) and current smoking (OR ¼ 2.37), but not habitual seafood consumption were associated with sensitization to fish. Conclusions Based on comparison with previous published studies, the prevalence of Occupational asthma to salt water fish is lower than due to shellfish. The gendered distribution of work and exposures in fish processing operations together with atopy and cigarette smoking are important determinants of Occupational Allergy and asthma. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:899– 910, 2008. 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  • Occupational Allergy in laboratory workers caused by the african migratory grasshopper locusta migratoria
    Allergy, 2005
    Co-Authors: Andreas L. Lopata, Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Gerd Gade, B Fenemore, Paul C Potter
    Abstract:

    Background: Recent reports of fatal asthma cases associated with swarms of locusts affecting African countries have highlighted the importance of this insect in causing asthma morbidity and mortality. However, only limited information is available about the allergic health outcomes such as asthma and its determinants in exposed individuals. In this study, workers exposed to the African migratory locust Locusta migratoria were evaluated for allergic health outcomes as well as the nature of the offending allergens. Methods: Ten scientists and technicians exposed to locusts in a laboratory were investigated for locust-related Allergy using questionnaires and immunological tests. The presence of Allergy was determined by quantification of specific IgE and IgG to L. migratoria using the UniCAP® system and via skin-prick testing (SPT). The allergens were characterized by Western blot and ImmunoCAP inhibition assays. Results: Six of the 10 workers experienced symptoms ranging from urticaria and rhinoconjuctivitis to asthma. Seven individuals demonstrated sensitivity on SPT and five had specific IgE antibodies to L. migratoria. Significant cross-reactivity was demonstrated for allergens in the locust faeces, body and wings but not to cockroach allergens. Novel allergens with molecular weights of approximately 70 kDa were identified in locust wings, which are distinctly different from other known allergen sources from locusts. Conclusion: Exposure to L. migratoria allergens is a potential sensitizer in exposed individuals. Raised levels of locust-specific IgE can be readily quantified. The wings of this insect species have been identified as a novel allergen source.

Mohamed F. Jeebhay - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • monitoring of Occupational and environmental aeroallergens eaaci position paper concerted action of the eaaci ig Occupational Allergy and aerobiology air pollution
    Allergy, 2014
    Co-Authors: Monika Raulf, Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Lorenzo Cecchi, Dick Heederik, F De Blay, G Doekes, Jeroen T M Buters, M Chapman, Wijnand Eduard, S Kespohl
    Abstract:

    Exposure to high molecular weight sensitizers of biological origin is an important risk factor for the development of asthma and rhinitis. Most of the causal allergens have been defined based on their reactivity with IgE antibodies, and in many cases, the molecular structure and function of the allergens have been established. Significant information on allergen levels that cause sensitization and allergic symptoms for several major environmental and Occupational allergens has been reported. Monitoring of high molecular weight allergens and allergen carrier particles is an important part of the management of allergic respiratory diseases and requires standardized allergen assessment methods for Occupational and environmental (indoor and outdoor) allergen exposure. The aim of this EAACI task force was to review the essential points for monitoring environmental and Occupational allergen exposure including sampling strategies and methods, processing of dust samples, allergen analysis, and quantification. The paper includes a summary of different methods for sampling and allergen quantification, as well as their pros and cons for various exposure settings. Recommendations are being made for different exposure scenarios.

  • airborne seafood allergens as a cause of Occupational Allergy and asthma
    Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 2013
    Co-Authors: Andreas L. Lopata, Mohamed F. Jeebhay
    Abstract:

    Occupational Allergy and asthma is a serious adverse health outcome affecting seafood-processing workers. Allergic reactions are directed to two major seafood groups: fish and shellfish, with the latter group comprising crustaceans and molluscs. Several allergenic proteins have been identified in these different groups, but few have been characterised on a molecular level. Parvalbumin appears to be the major fish allergen, while tropomyosin the major crustacean allergen. Other IgE-binding proteins have also been identified in molluscs and other seafood-associated agents (e.g. Anisakis sp), although their molecular nature has not been characterised. Aerosolised allergens can be identified and quantified using immunological and chemical approaches, detecting levels as low as 10 ng/m(3). This contemporary review discusses interesting and recent findings in the area of Occupational seafood Allergy including high-risk occupations, environmental risk factors for airborne exposures, major and minor allergens implicated and innovative approaches in diagnosing and managing Occupational Allergy and asthma associated with seafood processing.

  • Occupational Allergy and asthma among salt water fish processing workers
    American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2008
    Co-Authors: Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Roslynn Baatjies, Andreas L. Lopata, Mary E Miller, Eric D Bateman, Marius Smuts, Thomas G. Robins
    Abstract:

    Background Fish processing is a common economic activity in Southern Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and host determinants of allergic symptoms, allergic sensitization, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and asthma among workers processing saltwater fish. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 594 currently employed workers in two processing plants involved in pilchard canning and fishmeal processing. A modified European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was used. Skin prick tests (SPT) used extracts of common airborne allergens, fresh fish (pilchard, anchovy, maasbanker, mackerel, red eye) and fishmeal. Spirometry and methacholine challenge tests (MCTs; tidal breathing method) used ATS guidelines. Results Work-related ocular-nasal symptoms (26%) were more common than asthma symptoms (16%). The prevalence of atopy was 36%, while 7% were sensitized to fish species and 26% had NSBH (PC20 � 8m g/ml or� 12% increase in FEV1 post-bronchodilator). The prevalence of probable Occupational asthma was 1.8% and fish allergic rhino-conjunctivitis 2.6%. Women were more likely to report work-related asthma symptoms (OR ¼ 1.94) and have NSBH (OR ¼ 3.09), while men were more likely to be sensitized to fish (OR ¼ 2.06) and have airway obstruction (OR ¼ 4.17). Atopy (OR ¼ 3.16) and current smoking (OR ¼ 2.37), but not habitual seafood consumption were associated with sensitization to fish. Conclusions Based on comparison with previous published studies, the prevalence of Occupational asthma to salt water fish is lower than due to shellfish. The gendered distribution of work and exposures in fish processing operations together with atopy and cigarette smoking are important determinants of Occupational Allergy and asthma. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:899– 910, 2008. 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  • Occupational Allergy in laboratory workers caused by the african migratory grasshopper locusta migratoria
    Allergy, 2005
    Co-Authors: Andreas L. Lopata, Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Gerd Gade, B Fenemore, Paul C Potter
    Abstract:

    Background: Recent reports of fatal asthma cases associated with swarms of locusts affecting African countries have highlighted the importance of this insect in causing asthma morbidity and mortality. However, only limited information is available about the allergic health outcomes such as asthma and its determinants in exposed individuals. In this study, workers exposed to the African migratory locust Locusta migratoria were evaluated for allergic health outcomes as well as the nature of the offending allergens. Methods: Ten scientists and technicians exposed to locusts in a laboratory were investigated for locust-related Allergy using questionnaires and immunological tests. The presence of Allergy was determined by quantification of specific IgE and IgG to L. migratoria using the UniCAP® system and via skin-prick testing (SPT). The allergens were characterized by Western blot and ImmunoCAP inhibition assays. Results: Six of the 10 workers experienced symptoms ranging from urticaria and rhinoconjuctivitis to asthma. Seven individuals demonstrated sensitivity on SPT and five had specific IgE antibodies to L. migratoria. Significant cross-reactivity was demonstrated for allergens in the locust faeces, body and wings but not to cockroach allergens. Novel allergens with molecular weights of approximately 70 kDa were identified in locust wings, which are distinctly different from other known allergen sources from locusts. Conclusion: Exposure to L. migratoria allergens is a potential sensitizer in exposed individuals. Raised levels of locust-specific IgE can be readily quantified. The wings of this insect species have been identified as a novel allergen source.

Dick Heederik - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • monitoring of Occupational and environmental aeroallergens eaaci position paper concerted action of the eaaci ig Occupational Allergy and aerobiology air pollution
    Allergy, 2014
    Co-Authors: Monika Raulf, Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Lorenzo Cecchi, Dick Heederik, F De Blay, G Doekes, Jeroen T M Buters, M Chapman, Wijnand Eduard, S Kespohl
    Abstract:

    Exposure to high molecular weight sensitizers of biological origin is an important risk factor for the development of asthma and rhinitis. Most of the causal allergens have been defined based on their reactivity with IgE antibodies, and in many cases, the molecular structure and function of the allergens have been established. Significant information on allergen levels that cause sensitization and allergic symptoms for several major environmental and Occupational allergens has been reported. Monitoring of high molecular weight allergens and allergen carrier particles is an important part of the management of allergic respiratory diseases and requires standardized allergen assessment methods for Occupational and environmental (indoor and outdoor) allergen exposure. The aim of this EAACI task force was to review the essential points for monitoring environmental and Occupational allergen exposure including sampling strategies and methods, processing of dust samples, allergen analysis, and quantification. The paper includes a summary of different methods for sampling and allergen quantification, as well as their pros and cons for various exposure settings. Recommendations are being made for different exposure scenarios.

  • associations between pre employment immunologic and airway mucosal factors and the development of Occupational Allergy
    The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2009
    Co-Authors: Esmeralda Krop, Dick Heederik, Rene Lutter, Gea De Meer, Rob C Aalberse, Henk M Jansen, Jaring S Van Der Zee
    Abstract:

    Background Sensitization to Occupational allergens is frequently found in laboratory animal workers (LAWs) and can cause serious health problems. Atopy is a major risk factor for sensitization, but it is considered insufficient to advise against working with animals. Objective We investigated whether immunologic measures, including serology and cytokine production profiles of blood cells, and parameters for airway inflammation are associated with the development of Occupational sensitization. Methods In a prospective cohort study 110 starting LAWs were followed for 2 years. At inclusion, results of health questionnaires, skin test results, lung function measures, methacholine threshold levels, and nasal lavage fluid were obtained. Blood was taken for measuring total IgE and allergen-specific IgE antibodies. Cytokine production profiles were measured in whole blood. Results Twenty-two new cases of sensitization were identified during follow-up. In multivariate logistic regression analysis a model including atopy and total IgE level predicted sensitization best. This was corroborated in a separate validation cohort. Parameters for airway inflammation or cytokine production profiles did not further contribute to the prediction of sensitization. Based on these results, pre-employment counseling aimed at applicant LAWs with atopy and a total IgE level of greater than 100 IU/mL might be able to reduce Occupational sensitization by up to 45% to 50% with less than 10% false-positive predictions. Conclusion The combination of atopy and total IgE level offered the best model to predict development of Occupational sensitization. Other immunologic parameters and parameters of airway inflammation did not contribute significantly.

  • airborne exposure to wheat allergens measurement by human immunoglobulin g4 and rabbit immunoglobulin g immunoassays
    Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2006
    Co-Authors: Jelena Bogdanovic, I Sander, Dick Heederik, M Raulfheimsoth, Inge M Wouters, J Elms, M J Rodrigo, G Doekes
    Abstract:

    Background Exposure to airborne wheat allergens in the bakery trade is associated with a high risk of Occupational Allergy and asthma. Control and reduction of allergen exposure require relatively simple but reliable monitoring techniques. We developed new rabbit IgG-based enzyme immunoassays (EIA) for wheat allergens, which might be a convenient alternative for the thus far used human IgG4 inhibition assay. Methods The reactivity and specificity of rabbit antibodies were assessed by EIA and immunoblotting, and compared with those of IgE from wheat-sensitized bakers, and with the antibodies used in the IgG4 inhibition EIA. An IgG inhibition and a sandwich EIA were developed for analysis of airborne dust samples. Results Human IgG4 and rabbit IgG inhibition EIAs had comparable sensitivities, with limits of detection (LOD) between 18 and 88 ng/mL, while the sandwich EIA was much more sensitive (LOD 0.95) and their absolute values showed less than 10-20% differences. Conclusion The rabbit IgG EIAs are valid substitutes for the human IgG4 inhibition EIA, with important practical advantages. The inhibition EIA is recommended for routine wheat allergen measurements. The sandwich EIA may be used to measure low allergen levels, as in short task-related exposure measurements or in subfractions of airborne dust samples.

  • bronchial responsiveness to adenosine 5 monophosphate amp and methacholine differ in their relationship with airway Allergy and baseline fev1
    American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 2002
    Co-Authors: Gea De Meer, Dick Heederik, Dirkje S Postma
    Abstract:

    Bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and inflammation are central hallmarks of asthma. Studies in patients with asthma suggest that BHR to adenosine 5 ′ -monophosphate (AMP) is a better marker of bronchial inflammation than BHR to methacholine. The association between markers of airway inflammation and BHR to methacholine and AMP in a population of young adults, with mild symptoms if any, was evaluated. A total of 230 subjects who participated in a follow-up study on Occupational Allergy were included. Before exposure to Occupational allergens, subjects completed a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms and were tested for atopy, blood eosinophilia ( ⩾ 275/mm3), and BHR to methacholine and AMP ( ⩾ 15% fall in FEV1). Risk estimates were expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Dose– response slopes (DRS) for methacholine and AMP were compared between healthy control subjects, self-reported allergic rhinitis, and allergic asthma. BHR to AMP was associated with allergic rhinit...

  • respiratory Allergy to rats exposure response relationships in laboratory animal workers
    American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 1997
    Co-Authors: A Hollander, Dick Heederik, G Doekes
    Abstract:

    Laboratory animal workers are at high risk of developing Occupational Allergy. Little is known about the relationship between levels of exposure and the risk of developing laboratory animal Allergy. A cross-sectional study was performed in 540 workers at eight facilities to quantify the exposure-response relationship for Allergy to rats, while controlling for determinants like atopy, gender, and smoking. All participants completed a questionnaire, underwent skin prick testing with common and Occupational allergens, and total IgE as well as Occupational allergen-specific IgE antibodies were serologically measured. Personal air dust samples were taken during full-shift periods to estimate the rat urinary aeroallergen exposure levels. In the whole study population no clear exposure-response relationship was observed. However, in the group of workers with less than 4 yr of working experience with laboratory animals the prevalence rate of sensitization to rat allergens was clearly associated with exposure levels. The exposure-response relationship was steepest for workers with atopy-associated risk factors, i.e., self-reported Allergy or sensitization to cats or dogs, or elevated total serum IgE. The prevalence rates of sensitization to rat allergens for these workers were about 15, 9.5, and 7.3 times higher in the high, medium, and low exposure group, respectively, compared with internal reference group.

G Doekes - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • monitoring of Occupational and environmental aeroallergens eaaci position paper concerted action of the eaaci ig Occupational Allergy and aerobiology air pollution
    Allergy, 2014
    Co-Authors: Monika Raulf, Mohamed F. Jeebhay, Lorenzo Cecchi, Dick Heederik, F De Blay, G Doekes, Jeroen T M Buters, M Chapman, Wijnand Eduard, S Kespohl
    Abstract:

    Exposure to high molecular weight sensitizers of biological origin is an important risk factor for the development of asthma and rhinitis. Most of the causal allergens have been defined based on their reactivity with IgE antibodies, and in many cases, the molecular structure and function of the allergens have been established. Significant information on allergen levels that cause sensitization and allergic symptoms for several major environmental and Occupational allergens has been reported. Monitoring of high molecular weight allergens and allergen carrier particles is an important part of the management of allergic respiratory diseases and requires standardized allergen assessment methods for Occupational and environmental (indoor and outdoor) allergen exposure. The aim of this EAACI task force was to review the essential points for monitoring environmental and Occupational allergen exposure including sampling strategies and methods, processing of dust samples, allergen analysis, and quantification. The paper includes a summary of different methods for sampling and allergen quantification, as well as their pros and cons for various exposure settings. Recommendations are being made for different exposure scenarios.

  • airborne exposure to wheat allergens measurement by human immunoglobulin g4 and rabbit immunoglobulin g immunoassays
    Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2006
    Co-Authors: Jelena Bogdanovic, I Sander, Dick Heederik, M Raulfheimsoth, Inge M Wouters, J Elms, M J Rodrigo, G Doekes
    Abstract:

    Background Exposure to airborne wheat allergens in the bakery trade is associated with a high risk of Occupational Allergy and asthma. Control and reduction of allergen exposure require relatively simple but reliable monitoring techniques. We developed new rabbit IgG-based enzyme immunoassays (EIA) for wheat allergens, which might be a convenient alternative for the thus far used human IgG4 inhibition assay. Methods The reactivity and specificity of rabbit antibodies were assessed by EIA and immunoblotting, and compared with those of IgE from wheat-sensitized bakers, and with the antibodies used in the IgG4 inhibition EIA. An IgG inhibition and a sandwich EIA were developed for analysis of airborne dust samples. Results Human IgG4 and rabbit IgG inhibition EIAs had comparable sensitivities, with limits of detection (LOD) between 18 and 88 ng/mL, while the sandwich EIA was much more sensitive (LOD 0.95) and their absolute values showed less than 10-20% differences. Conclusion The rabbit IgG EIAs are valid substitutes for the human IgG4 inhibition EIA, with important practical advantages. The inhibition EIA is recommended for routine wheat allergen measurements. The sandwich EIA may be used to measure low allergen levels, as in short task-related exposure measurements or in subfractions of airborne dust samples.

  • respiratory Allergy to rats exposure response relationships in laboratory animal workers
    American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 1997
    Co-Authors: A Hollander, Dick Heederik, G Doekes
    Abstract:

    Laboratory animal workers are at high risk of developing Occupational Allergy. Little is known about the relationship between levels of exposure and the risk of developing laboratory animal Allergy. A cross-sectional study was performed in 540 workers at eight facilities to quantify the exposure-response relationship for Allergy to rats, while controlling for determinants like atopy, gender, and smoking. All participants completed a questionnaire, underwent skin prick testing with common and Occupational allergens, and total IgE as well as Occupational allergen-specific IgE antibodies were serologically measured. Personal air dust samples were taken during full-shift periods to estimate the rat urinary aeroallergen exposure levels. In the whole study population no clear exposure-response relationship was observed. However, in the group of workers with less than 4 yr of working experience with laboratory animals the prevalence rate of sensitization to rat allergens was clearly associated with exposure levels. The exposure-response relationship was steepest for workers with atopy-associated risk factors, i.e., self-reported Allergy or sensitization to cats or dogs, or elevated total serum IgE. The prevalence rates of sensitization to rat allergens for these workers were about 15, 9.5, and 7.3 times higher in the high, medium, and low exposure group, respectively, compared with internal reference group.