Detecting sensitizing substances through animal and human testing

It is important to know how to use sensitization tests and to be able to interpret the results of studies in order to recognize and assess the allergenic potential of a chemical substance for humans.

Sensitization to a chemical substance occurs after repeated, low-dose contact over a varying period of time. Sensitization reactions (allergy) are triggered unexpectedly by a new incidental contact with the sensitizing substance.

Tests on laboratory animals follow the same pattern: induction – latency – triggering, followed by the rating of effects.