Reference

Calverley AE, Rees D, Dowdeswell RJ et al, Platinum salt sensitivity in refinery workers: incidence and effects of smoking and exposure, Occup Environ Med, 1995;52:661-666,

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.

Study aimed to measure the incidence of platinum salt sensitivity (PSS) in refinery workers and examine the influence of smoking and exposure to platinum salts or sensitisation. After 24 months, 32/78 (41%) subjects had been diagnosed with PSS, 22 of whom had positive skin prick test whereas 10 were symptomatic but had negative skin prick tests. Positive responses to platinum salt skin prick test had a 100% positive predictive value for symptoms and signs of PSS if exposure continued. Risk of sensitisation was about eight times greater for smokers than non-smokers, and six times greater for high exposure than low exposure. Authors concluded that smoking and intensity of exposure were definitely associated with development of PSS and that logical recommendations would be employment of non-smokers, and continued reduction in platinum salts in air in work areas.

BOHRF Associated Evidence Statements

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

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The risk of sensitisation and occupational asthma is increased by higher exposures to many workplace agents.

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Cigarette smoking can increase the risk of developing occupational asthma with some sensitising agents.

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Sensitisation and occupational asthma are most likely to develop in the first years of exposure for workers exposed to enzymes, complex platinum salts, isocyanates and laboratory animal allergens.