Abstract
Asian dust events result from displacement of atmospheric pollutants from the Chinese and Mongolian deserts, causing associated health issues throughout Northeast Asia. We investigated the relationship between skin symptoms in Asian dust events and contact allergy to Asian dust and associated metals. Increases in atmospheric levels of heavy metals such as Ni, Al, and Fe occurred during the severe Asian dust event on March 21, 2010. We conducted a case–control study (n = 62) with patch testing to compare skin symptoms on an Asian dust day with metal allergic reactions. Skin symptoms were observed in 18/62 subjects. Nine subjects with skin symptoms (group A) and 11 without (group B) were patch tested for six metals and Asian dust particles. Metal and dust samples were applied to the subjects’ backs for 2 days and the reactions were scored according to the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group guidelines. Differences in the positive rates between the groups were analyzed. Skin reactions to ferric chloride (p = 0.015), aluminum chloride (p = 0.047), nickel sulfate (p = 0.008), and Asian dust particles (p = 0.047) were more common in group A than in group B. Skin symptoms during Asian dust events may be allergic reactions to Asian dust particle-bound metals.
Highlights
Asian dust events result from the long-range displacement of atmospheric pollutants originating in the Chinese and Mongolian deserts
We previously reported the association between skin symptoms and Asian dust events [7] and found an association between levels of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and contaminating metals such as nickel [8]
Nickel is a cause of airborne dermatitis, and inhaled nickel in ambient air has been suggested as a risk factor for nickel sensitization [11]
Summary
Asian dust events result from the long-range displacement of atmospheric pollutants originating in the Chinese and Mongolian deserts. Asian dust event frequencies and atmospheric dust levels have been increasing steadily in the eastern Asia region [1], the effects of Asian dust on human health are not well known. We previously reported the association between skin symptoms and Asian dust events [7] and found an association between levels of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and contaminating metals such as nickel [8]. Dermatologists and occupational physicians have become increasingly aware of airborne sources of contact dermatitis, which results mainly from exposure to irritants or allergens [10]. We conducted a case-control study and used patch tests to compare skin symptoms on an Asian dust day with metal allergic reactions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
