Hyposensitization to poison ivy after working in a cashew nut shell oil processing factory

doi:10.1111/j.1600-0536.1989.tb03145.x

Hyposensitization to poison ivy after working in a cashew nut shell oil processing factory

Published Apr 1, 1989 · Ruthane F. Reginella, James C. Fairfield, J. Marks

Contact Dermatitis

Q2 SJR score

19

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0

Influential Citations

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Semantic Scholar

Abstract

19 adults were patch tested to urushiol, the allergen in poison ivy/oak, to determine their sensitivity to this allergen after working in a cashew nut shell oil (CNSO) processing plant. The cashew nut tree and poison ivy/oak are in the same botanical family, Anacardiaceae, and they share similar chemicals which cause allergic contact dermatitis. 13 of the 19 workers had a preemployment history of poison ivy sensitivity, with 10 developing CNSO dermatitis. After working in this factory for several months, 9 of the 13 noticed a decreased sensitivity or no sensitivity to poison ivy/oak. When tested to urushiol extract, only 3 reacted positively, 2 minimally. These results imply that hyposensitization to poison ivy/oak occurred in these employees after development of hardening to cashew nut shell oil.

Observational Study

Study Snapshot

Key takeawayWorking in a cashew nut shell oil processing plant can lead to hyposensitization to poison ivy/oak allergens, reducing or eliminating allergic contact dermatitis in employees.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Hyposensitization to poison ivy after working in a cashew nut shell oil processing factory

References

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