Occupational induction of hypersensitivity after an accidental exposure to chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (CMI/MI) in an industrial worker

Occup Med (Lond). 1999 Jan;49(1):51-3. doi: 10.1093/occmed/49.1.51.

Abstract

A process worker in a paper chemical plant developed an immediate local dermal irritation and delayed bullous dermatitis due to induction of hypersensitivity following an accidental exposure to chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (CMI/MI) biocide. Contact allergy to the isothiazolinone mixture was confirmed by skin patch testing. The dermatitis healed in four weeks, and the worker was advised to avoid all CMI/MI containing products. In a one-year follow-up he did not present with any further skin symptoms. Preventive measures are important for avoiding induction of hypersensitivity to concentrated CMI/MI solutions in industrial workers.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Occupational*
  • Chemical Industry
  • Dermatitis, Occupational / etiology*
  • Disinfectants / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Patch Tests
  • Risk Assessment
  • Thiazoles / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Disinfectants
  • Thiazoles
  • 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one
  • 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one