STUDY OF SEVERAL FACTORS INFLUENCING CONTACT IRRITATION AND SENSITIZATION

[摘要] The following observations were made using inbred albino guinea pigs: (1) Pregnant guinea pigs, just prior to delivery, showed marked decreased reactivity to croton oil. (2) Repeated applications of non-irritating concentrations of croton oil in the same area resulted in chronic irritation. (3) Ambient conditions of 94[degree]F and 90% relative humidity for 2 hours preceding and 5 hours following the application of croton oil resulted in decreased reactivity to croton oil. (4) Ambient conditions of 41-42F and 61-77% relative humidity resulted in increased reactivity to croton oil. Similar cold ambient conditions prevailed during sensitization of guinea pigs with 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene. (5) Irritation had variable effects on sensitization. (a) Sandpapering the skin until moist before application of the sensitizing dose of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene increased the degree of sensitization. (b) Severe inflammation with croton oil, decreased, while mild irritation with croton oil or HC1 increased, the degree of sensitization of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene. (6) Ingestion of Fowler''s solution decreased the degree of sensitivity to 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene.