Reference

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.

Immunologic, lung function, and specific bronchial challenge tests (SBCTs) were performed in 8 patients with occupational asthma due to exposure to persulfate salts (3 smokers, 6 presented with rhinitis prior to asthma, and 3 presented with dermatitis). The mean time of exposure to persulfate salts up to diagnosis was 15 years (range 3-27 years), and mean time that had elapsed between symptom onset and diagnosis was 38 months (range 3-120 months). The results of total IgE tests were positive in 6 patients, and the results of skin-prick tests for detection of persulfate salts were positive in 5 of these patients. The results of a SBCT were positive in the 7 patients in whom it was performed. 5 patients avoided exposure to persulfate salts and 3 adopted protective measures following diagnosis. 7/8 patients still had persistent asthma despite avoiding exposure and required treatment for the control of symptoms therefore early diagnosis and prompt removal from exposure are essential. Authors conclude that results suggest that the reliable diagnosis of occupational asthma due to persulfate salts must be based on the specific challenge test until further experience has been acquired. Despite avoiding exposure, patients continued with symptoms and required treatment for the control of symptoms.

BOHRF Associated Evidence Statements

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