Occupational immediate-type asthma and rhinitis due to rhodium salts

Am J Ind Med. 2010 Jan;53(1):42-6. doi: 10.1002/ajim.20786.

Abstract

Background: Whereas platinum salts are well known occupational allergens, rhodium salts have not been identified as inhalative sensitizing substances.

Methods: A 27-year-old atopic operator of an electroplating plant developed work-related shortness of breath and runny nose with sneezing after exposure to rhodium salts. Quantitative skin prick tests (SPT) and bronchial challenge tests with a dosimeter protocol were performed with quadrupling doses of the sodium chloride salts of rhodium (Na(3)RhCl(6)) and platinum (Na(2)PtCl(6)).

Results: The patient showed positive SPT reactions and positive bronchial immediate-type reactions with rhodium and platinum salts. Sensitivity to rhodium salt was much higher than to platinum salt; the molar concentrations differed by a factor of 256 in SPT and a factor of 16 in bronchial challenges.

Conclusions: Rhodium salts should be considered as occupational immediate-type allergens.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asthma / chemically induced*
  • Asthma / diagnosis
  • Bronchial Provocation Tests
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Electroplating*
  • Forced Expiratory Volume / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity, Immediate / diagnosis*
  • Intradermal Tests
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Occupational Diseases / diagnosis
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Platinum / toxicity
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / chemically induced*
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / diagnosis
  • Rhodium / toxicity*

Substances

  • Platinum
  • Rhodium