 |
|
ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
ALLERGEN
An allergen is any substance (antigen or hapten) that can cause an allergic reaction or an allergy (any substance which stimulates IgE synthesis or causes a delayed hypersensitivity - see also Allergy).27
Allergens trigger the production of antibodies, which in turn sensitise mast cells. On re-exposure the combination of allergen and IgE antibody may cause the release of chemicals that can produce unpleasant symptoms, ranging from sneezing to rash or potentially fatal anaphylactic shock. Almost any substance in the human environment can be an allergen, including food, pollens, drugs, chemicals, plastics, insect bites, wool and cotton. Likely allergens in the laboratory are20,28-31:
acetone
acid anhydrides
acriflavine
aldehydes
amines
ammonium nitrate
aurantia
benzene
bichromates
butanol
carbon tetrachloride
chromium trioxide
dialkyl-p-phenylene diamines
1,2-dichloroethane
d-Limonene (Histoclear, Safsolvent, Histolene)
dye powders (almost all dye powders from any
source)
epoxy resins
ethylene glycol
formaldehyde
gentian violet
glutaraldehyde
isocyanates
mercury
methyl trisulphide
methylaminophenolsulphate (Metol)
neutral red
osmium tetroxide
phenol
photographic chemicals
potassium acetate
potassium carbonate
proteolytic enzymes
pyridine
pyrogallol
quinol (hydroquinone)
resins
sodium acetate
talcum powder
tannic acid
toluene
trypsin
xylene
Working with animals can also lead to sensitisation. Adequate personal protection, such as a long sleeved gown with wrist bands, gloves and mask minimises the risk of sensitisation.32
Medical advice should be sought by persons experiencing a sensitivity reaction.
BACK to the top
of the Glossary Contents List
BACK to the top of the Chemical
Contents List