Hairdressers May be More Likely to React to Neuromuscular Blocking Agents (NMBA)

A study was performed to evaluate if quaternary and tertiary ammonium ions may be important antigens.  The study included 128 hairdressers and 108 bakers/pastry makers with occupational exposure to quaternary ammonium ions, along with 379 controls. Positive IgE against quaternary ammonium ions was 4.6 times more frequent in hairdressers, compared to bakers or controls.

These authors found that prior occupational contact exposure in hairdressers may result in IgE sensitization that cross reacts with NMBAs. The results showed that the frequency of IgE to NMBAs was indeed higher among hairdressers, compared to bakers or normal controls.

Author Saraleen Benouni, MD Dr. Benouni specializes in the treatment of asthma, allergies, atopic dermatitis, and immune disorders for both adults and children. She has presented and published research at national allergy meetings and has authored papers on drug allergies and skin conditions. She is a member of the American College and American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, and the Los Angeles Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology.