Allergen of the Year: 2009

Posted by dermcareonline on December 21, 2009 under allergies | Be the First to Comment

Allergen of the Year 2009

Every year, the North American Contact Dermatitis Group (NACDG) names a substance that causes allergic rashes. This is determined based upon results from a patch test. A patch test is a simple test done in a doctor’s office where products are placed on the skin, and after waiting some time, the doctor looks at the skin to see if an allergic reaction has occurred because of a specific substance. In 2009, the NACDG has named mixed dialkyl thioureas as the allergen of the year. Mixed dialkyl thioureas are also known as diethylthiourea and dibutylthiourea.

Mixed dialkyl thioureas are accelerants used to make rubber, and antioxidants in the making of neoprene. Commonly, people have rashes on their hands from rubber gloves, or on their feet from athletic shoes or foot supporters. It can also be seen with rubber orthopedic braces, swimming masks or goggles, wet suits, and sleep apnea masks.

If you have a rash that won’t go away, a doctor can perform a patch test to determine if you are allergic to these accelerators. Barrier creams like zinc oxide paste can be used to prevent the chemical from touching with your skin. After that, avoidance if the irritant substance is key. Klogs USA and Medimex make shoes without the accelerators.