David
I would question the concept of prick tests. In the first place such a test
would only show whether someone is already sensitised to platinum and is no
indication of the potential to become sensitised. As with this test there is
also the potential to actively sensitise as a result of the test, you could
find yourself in a very sticky situation. The IgE test will only show the
presence of antibodies and, if positive, is an indication of sensitisation.
It does not confirm allergy. Sensitisation and allergy are not the same. It
is possible to be sensitised but not allergic.
Why perform such a test anyway? What is the purpose? If it is to establish
that a (potential) employee might react as a result of workplace exposure,
my legal friends have pointed out to me that in a legal case this might be
construed as the employer admitting that he was permitting exposure to a
sensitiser and thus not complying properly with COSHH (otherwise why carry
out the test).
The reality is that there is no way of predicting who will become sensitised
to a particular substance nor is there any indication of impending
sensitisation. What is important is that a skin health surveillance system
is in place so that a visual inspection of skin condition detects an
allergic reaction at the earliest possible stage so that appropriate action
can be taken. Once allergy has occurred, then if exposure is allowed to
continue the threshold at which a reaction occurs will reduce until
virtually any exposure can elicit a reaction. So early detection and action
is essential.
If you need more on this get in touch direct or contact my daughter, Dr.
Helen Taylor, as skin health surveillance is her speciality. You can contact
her at the same address/phone number shown below.
Regards
Chris Packham
EnviroDerm Services (UK) Ltd.
2 Amery Lodge Farm, North Littleton, Evesham, WR11 8QY
Tel: +44 1386 831 777
www.enviroderm.co.uk
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