
Full text loading...
Allergens of Animal and Biological Systems, Page 1 of 2
< Previous page Next page > /docserver/preview/fulltext/10.1128/9781555815899/9781555813390_Chap12-1.gif /docserver/preview/fulltext/10.1128/9781555815899/9781555813390_Chap12-2.gifAbstract:
This chapter deals with laboratory animal allergy (LAA) as a common and important occupational hazard with different biological systems. Higher levels of allergen exposure correlate well with both the development and severity of symptoms. The most important risk factor in the development of LAA is the level of exposure to laboratory animal allergens. The most common symptom of LAA is allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, which consists of nasal congestion, clear nasal discharge, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. The diagnosis of suspected LAA can be confirmed with the use of skin tests or radioallerabsorbent tests (RASTs), which test for the presence of IgE antibodies to specific allergens. The major allergens from species including gerbils, hamsters, such as cow allergen, have been identified as members of the lipocalin family. The first step in prevention of allergy is identifying which workers may be more susceptible to the development of LAA. Epidemiological studies have also shown that the greater the exposure to animal allergens, the more likely will one become sensitized and have symptoms related to work. For an animal facility worker with suspected animal allergy, the diagnosis is largely made on the history of clinical symptoms associated with exposure. The allergens can be carried on small airborne particles and can remain airborne for long periods. By understanding the etiology, pathophysiology, prevention, and management of LAA, hopefully the necessary measures can be implemented to control and prevent the disease.