title: Occupational sensitization to lactase.
abstract: Occupational sensitization to lactase is reported in workers formulating and packaging this consumer product, which is used for the relief of gastrointestinal symptoms caused by intolerance to lactose. Allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and some cases of asthma were noted. There was suggestive evidence that atopic individuals may be at greater risk of sensitization. Lactase should be added to the list of potential occupational respiratory sensitizers.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Health Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ONT, Canada.
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Muir
authors.forename: A B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Verrall
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Julian
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Millman
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Beaudin
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Dolovich
mesh_terms: D001249:Asthma / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D004391:Dust / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000453:epidemiology; D012882:Skin Tests; D001616:beta-Galactosidase / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D004391:Dust; D001616:beta-Galactosidase