Asthma, rhinitis and allergy associated with exposure to laboratory animals: evaluation of prevalence, risk factors and the need of prophylaxis

Abstract

Subjects exposed to laboratory animals are at high risk of developing respiratory and allergic diseases. The constant production of proteins eliminated in the urine, secretions and desquamation of the skin of animals that are found in air or deposited on the materials and equipment, make the laboratory risky environment for the development of allergies. In exposed subjects, the incidence of occupational asthma is ranging from 2.0 to 3.5/100 people per year, and occupational rhinitis from 7.3 to 12.1/100 people per year. The prevention of respiratory and allergic diseases to laboratory animals is performed by simple measures such as the use of personal protective equipment. In the moment, few studies have looked at programs to prevent these diseases. Our objectives is to assess the need for programs for prevention of allergy, asthma and rhinitis to laboratory animals, evaluating the prevalence and risk factors for these diseases; evaluating the prevention measures that are currently used in laboratory and animals facilities; and evaluating the exposure of mouse and rat allergens, and dust mite. Two groups of subjects will be formed, one with subjects exposed to laboratory animals (n = 263) and another without exposure (n = 263). These subjects will respond to specific questionnaires, will perform spirometry, skin prick tests and bronchial provocation test. We will use an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify levels of mouse and rat allergens, and dust mite in samples from laboratory animals. Univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis will be used to determine if the groups are significantly different and to define risk factors. (AU)