Reference

Merget R, SchultzeWerninghaus G, Muthorst T et al, Asthma Due To The Complex Salts Of Platinum: A Cross-Sectional Survey Of Workers In A Platinum Refinery, Clin Allergy, 1988;18:569-580,

BOHRF Original Authors' Main Conclusions

The original authors' main conclusions are taken from Abstract, Results and Discussion. They are decided upon by the authors of the BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines and form part of the guidelines.

Anamnestic and immunological data of platinum refinery workers were compared (group A: workers with work-related symptoms (8); group B: workers with symptoms not clearly work-related (9); group C: asymptomatic workers (13) and controls (group D: atopics (10); group E: non-atopics (16)). Exposure to platinum salt was higher in group A than in groups B or C. All subjects of group A and 3 workers of group B, but none of the workers of the other groups, showed a positive cutaneous reaction to platinum salts. Total serum IgE was higher in groups A and D than other groups, however platinum salt-specific IgE was higher in group A. Histamine release with platinum salts was found in all groups and was highest in atopic controls. Authors conclude that neither histamine release from basophils with platinum salts, nor RAST for the detection of platinum salt-specific IgE are helpful in the diagnosis of platinum salt allergy.

BOHRF Associated Evidence Statements

The BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines state that this reference is associated with the following evidence statements

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2+

Skin prick testing and blood sampling of exposed workers to conduct immunological tests is feasible in the workplace.

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2+

In the clinical setting questionnaires that identify symptoms of wheeze and/or shortness of breath which improve on days away from work or on holiday have a high sensitivity, but relatively low specificity for occupational asthma.

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2+

Skin prick tests are highly sensitive but less specific for occupational asthma caused by complex platinum salts.