[The enzyme papain in industry and food causes allergic sensitization].
The proteolytic enzyme papain is known to cause allergic sensitization. At a research laboratory several employees developed allergic symptoms after occupational exposure to papain dust and were referred to the local Clinic of Occupational Medicine. 10 out of 22 employees reported work-related ocular itching and symptoms of rhinitis. A Histamine Release Test showed that three employees were sensitized to papain. After the introduction of more stringent hygienic procedures including the use of a fume cupboard and external washing of test tubes during use, all work-related symptoms disappeared.
Rosenthal
Anette Pagh
AP
Arbejdsmedicinsk Klinik, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Hillerød, DK-3400 Hillerød. apro@noh.regionh.dk
Blønd
Morten Bruland
MB
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational / Q000009:adverse effects; D000485:Allergens / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D004391:Dust; D006636:Histamine Release; D006801:Humans; D017056:Medical Laboratory Personnel; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D010206:Papain / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011537:Pruritus / Q000139:chemically induced; D012220:Rhinitis / Q000139:chemically induced; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D000395:Air Pollutants, Occupational; D000485:Allergens; D004391:Dust; D010206:Papain