Lesional skin vascular endothelial growth factor levels correlate with clinical severity in patients with cement allergic contact dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis to cement is a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction in which cytokines interferon-gamma [IFN-gamma] and vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] may be involved in persisting erythema and oedema. VEGF and IFN-gamma levels in serum and skin lesions were measured in 32 Egyptian building workers with chronic allergic contact dermatitis due to occupational exposure to cement and 20 healthy controls. Dermatitis patients had significantly higher levels of serum and lesional skin VEGF and IFN-gamma than controls. A significant positive correlation was found between tissue VEGF and the eczema area and severity index [EASI] score in dermatitis patients [r = 0.86]. VEGF and IFN-gamma may play a role in the pathogenesis of cement allergic contact dermatitis

Criteria for classification of skin- and airway-sensitizing substances in the work and general environments

The gradually growing incidence of skin and airway sensitizations and hypersensitivity in Europe requires the intensification of preventive measures. The WHO Regional Office for Europe organized a meeting to review and propose criteria to classify the substances with a sensitizing potential. Experts in clinical dermatology and pulmonology, as well as experimental medical biology and toxicology accordingly met in Copenhagen to discuss criteria proposed by the Nordic Committee on Building Regulations and other documents. The participants reached consensus on criteria to identify and classify significant skin sensitizers and substances causing specific airway hypersensitivity. In addition, the participants made recommendations on the practical use of classification in primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, and on the setting of national preventive strategies