Laboratory Animal Allergy - A Review

Abstract

Animal allergen exposure is a significant risk factor for allergy in animal workers. Laboratory animal allergy has a prevalence of 11-44% in those who work with animals. This review gives information on the clinical picture, medical examination and prophylactic strategies for monitoring both the environment and the individual. Background data concerning epidemiology, predisposing factors, allergic mechanisms and exposure to various animal allergens are also given.

Anaphylaxis in laboratory workers because of rodent handling: two case reports

“…Rodents, in particular rats and mice, are the most important laboratory animals that contribute to this problem because of their widespread use in experimental research. Rodent allergy in the workplace has been reported to affect 11%-44% of the exposed personnel 6) . Moreover, it is also considered to be a significant concern for general population in non-occupational settings 7) .…”

Allergy to rodents: an update

“…Allergic symptoms because of laboratory animals was first reported in the 1950s [4], however, the importance of this condition did not become apparent until large epidemiological studies were carried out in the 1970s and 1980s [5–8] and despite an increasing awareness of the disease over the years, it still remains an important cause of significant health problems today. LAA has been reported to affect 11–44% of exposed personnel [2] and symptoms are commonly reported in up to 10% of workers. Typically symptoms include rhinitis, conjunctivitis, contact urticaria, occasionally anaphylaxis and asthma.…”

“…In the occupational setting, rodent allergy affects between 11% and 44% of exposed personnel [2] and allergens from rodents are potent causes of both acute and chronic symptoms. Much effort has been focused on understanding the complex dose-response relationship, observed in many studies, between animal exposure, sensitization and symptoms.…”