RIFM fragrance ingredient safety assessment, ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate, CAS Registry Number 6413-10-1

Ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate (CAS # 6413-10-1) was evaluated for genotoxicity, repeated dose toxicity, reproductive toxicity, local respiratory toxicity, phototoxicity/photoallergenicity, skin sensitization, and environmental safety. Data show that ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate is not genotoxic. Data from ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate show that there are no safety concerns for skin sensitization under the current, declared levels of use. Data on ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate provide a calculated MOE >100 for the repeated dose, developmental, and reproductive toxicity endpoints. The local respiratory toxicity endpoints were evaluated using the TTC for a Cramer Class III material, and the exposure to ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate is below the TTC (0.47 mg/day). The phototoxicity/photoallergenicity endpoints were evaluated based on UV spectra; ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate is not expected to be phototoxic/photoallergenic. For the environmental endpoints, ethyl 2-methyl-1,3-dioxolane-2-acetate is not PBT as per the IFRA Environmental Standards, and its risk quotients (i.e., PEC/PNEC) for the aquatic environment based on its current volume of use in Europe and North America are <1.

Usage patterns of aromatherapy among the French general population: A descriptive study focusing on dermal exposure

Although likely benefits of aromatherapy are well documented, little is known about essential oils consumption and exposure to molecules present in the oils. The aim of our study was to determine usage patterns of 12 types of essential oils among a quite large panel, sorted per sex and quintile of age from birth to 70. A survey was conducted in September 2014 among 1507 French individuals, selected to build a representative panel of the general population. The key point of our study, apart from the fact that it has never been done among general population, was the focus on dermal exposure. Information about types of essential oils used, skin areas exposed, frequencies and quantities were collected. Our work revealed that some sub-populations could be significantly exposed to molecules of toxicological concern, especially in terms of skin sensitization. This work is the first step to assess human exposure to these molecules, and will help safety authorities and risk managers to protect the population.

Social rank and inhalant drug use: the case of lança perfume use in São Paulo, Brazil

BACKGROUND

Lanca perfume (chloroform/ether) is an inhalant used mainly by higher social class students in Brazil. In light of the social and epidemiological features of lanca use, supply, and distribution, this investigation tests hypotheses about the degree to which use of inhalant lanca might be occurring in clusters, consistent with social sharing and diffusion, and might show a direct association with social rank even within the relatively privileged social context of private schools in a large mega-city of Latin America.

METHODS

Epidemiologic self-report survey data were from a large representative sample of urban post-primary private school students in São Paulo city, Brazil, in 2008. Newly incident lanca use was studied, first with estimates of clustering from the alternating logistic regressions (ALR) and then with conditional logistic regressions to probe into the hypothesized direct social rank association.

RESULTS

ALR disclosed a clustering of newly incident lanca users within private school classrooms (pairwise odds ratio (PWOR)=2.1; 95% CI=1.3, 3.3; p=0.002) as well as clusters of recently active lanca use (PWOR=1.9; 95% CI=1.1, 3.3; p=0.02). Occurrence of lanca use within private school classrooms was directly associated with social rank (odds ratio (OR)=0.2; 95% CI=0.1, 0.8; p=0.03 in the contrast of lowest socio-economic status (SES) versus highest SES strata within classrooms). Thereafter, study of other drugs disclosed similar patterns.

CONCLUSIONS

The clustering estimates are consistent with concepts of person-to-person sharing of lanca within private school classrooms as well as other dynamic processes that might promote lanca clusters in this context. An observed direct association with social rank is not specific to lanca use. Direct SES estimates across a broad profile of drug compounds suggests causal processes over and above the more specific initially hypothesized social rank gradients in the lanca diffusion process. A novel facet of the evidence is greater occurrence of drug use among the higher social rank private school students, which should be of interest in the social science community.

Allergic contact dermatitis from ethylhexyl salicylate and other salicylates

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from salicylates present in topical products is uncommon. Most publications about ACD from salicylates are case reports describing only a few patients. Cross-reactivity between salicylates is not commonly reported. This article describes allergic contact dermatitis from ethylhexyl salicylate used as an ultraviolet filter and fragrance compound and reviews the published literature on contact allergy to salicylates.

Relevance of positive patch-test reactions to fragrance mix

BACKGROUND

Fragrances are an important cause of allergic contact dermatitis. We presume that the traditional fragrance mix (FM) detects 70 to 80% of fragrance-allergic patients. FM has an irritant potential. Weak positive reactions may have a greater chance of being irrelevant than strong reactions.

OBJECTIVE

To improve the appraisal of FM patch-test reactions, we studied the relevance of reactions of different strength. We also studied the predictive value of the following on the relevance of the initial FM patch-test results: patch-test results of a repeated FM test; results of patch tests with balsam of Peru, colophony, and ingredients of the mix; and (history of) atopic dermatitis.

METHODS

One hundred thirty-eight patients who had doubtful positive (?+) or positive (+ to +++) reactions were included in the study. We determined relevance by history taking, location and course of the dermatitis, and additional patch testing. Patients were retested with FM and with each ingredient separately.

RESULTS

The relevance of reactions to FM increases with the strength of the reactions. Predictors of relevance are the results of retesting with FM, the results of tests with the ingredients, and a history and/or present symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

CONCLUSION

Retesting with FM and its ingredients may add to the benefit of patch testing.

Oral tolerance to contact allergens: a common occurrence? A review

Experimental and clinical oral tolerance to contact allergens has been reported sporadically, most notably in respect of nickel, and is generally assumed to be an uncommon phenomenon. There has recently been increased understanding of the immunological mechanisms inducing and maintaining oral tolerance. There are several contact allergens, including fragrance, antioxidant, and preservative chemicals, to which subjects are exposed through both cutaneous and oral routes. We examine the possibility that oral tolerance to contact allergens may be more common than previously thought. Animal models of oral tolerance to contact allergens indicate that cutaneous exposure to small, subsensitizing doses of contact allergens might negate any subsequent attempts to induce tolerance by oral administration. Extrapolating these observations to common human practises raises the possibility that application of contact allergens (fragrances, preservatives and antioxidants) in consumer products used by children could prevent or inhibit the later acquisition of specific tolerance resulting from 'natural' dietary exposure after weaning. Existing data on formaldehyde may conflict with this theory, though this could be explained by allergen specificity. We propose that further work in this area is needed.

Contact allergy to topical medicaments becomes more common with advancing age: an age-stratified study

Eczema is common in the elderly people who often use topical medicaments. Previous studies in the elderly people have noted allergic positive patch tests in between 43% and 64% of those tested. We set out to assess whether medicament contact allergies are more common in elderly patients. We undertook a retrospective age-stratified study of all patients patch tested at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, between January 1994 and July 2005. We confirmed that contact allergy to topical medicaments is more common in those aged more than 70 years compared with the younger age groups. There was no sex difference. The commonest problematic allergen types found in medicaments were fragrances and preservatives. The most frequent individual allergens were fragrance mix, Myroxylon pereirae, lanolins, local anaesthetic agents, neomycin and gentamicin, and tixocortol pivolate. The pattern of medicament contact allergens was similar to that of the younger age groups except that multiple allergic positives were more frequent and sensitivities to local anaesthetics and Myroxylon pereirae were proportionally more common. Elderly patients were more likely to have multiple contact allergies than the younger ones. Care needs to be taken when prescribing topical medicaments to elderly patients with eczema, especially for preparations that contain perfumes, lanolins, and local anaesthetics.

Evaluation of the Sedative Effect of Fragrance on Filipinas Using a Biochemical Marker

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of salivary amylase activity as an indicator of the acute psychological sedative effects of fragrances used in household products such as clothing softeners. Twenty seven healthy Philippine female subjects in their late 30 s were enrolled (38.7+/-5.2 yr). This study was undertaken to investigate the favorite fragrance of Asian and Pacific Islander women. Our results indicated that (i) a mixed floral fragrance might be a favorite fragrance for Filipinas; (ii) fragrances contained in a softener significantly induced a sedative effect in humans, as assessed by both analysis of the biochemical marker and subjective evaluation; (iii) salivary amylase activity has the potential to be an excellent indicator for the evaluation of the acute psychological sedative effects of fragrance.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Octisalate and cis-3-Hexenyl Salicylate

A 62-year-old woman developed allergic contact dermatitis from sunscreens containing octisalate (octyl salicylate, 2-ethylhexyl salicylate) and from a fragrance containing cis-3-hexenyl salicylate. Results of patch testing and provocative use testing confirmed that she was allergic to octisalate. Provocative use testing indicated that she was also allergic to cis-3-hexenyl salicylate.

Patch testing with a new fragrance mix detects additional patients sensitive to perfumes and missed by the current fragrance mix

The currently used 8% fragrance mix (FM I) does not identify all patients with a positive history of adverse reactions to fragrances. A new FM II with 6 frequently used chemicals was evaluated in 1701 consecutive patients patch tested in 6 dermatological centres in Europe. FM II was tested in 3 concentrations - 28% FM II contained 5% hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral), 2% citral, 5% farnesol, 5% coumarin, 1% citronellol and 10%alpha-hexyl-cinnamic aldehyde; in 14% FM II, the single constituents' concentration was lowered to 50% and in 2.8% FM II to 10%. Each patient was classified regarding a history of adverse reactions to fragrances: certain, probable, questionable, none. Positive reactions to FM I occurred in 6.5% of the patients. Positive reactions to FM II were dose-dependent and increased from 1.3% (2.8% FM II), through 2.9% (14% FM II) to 4.1% (28% FM II). Reactions classified as doubtful or irritant varied considerably between the 6 centres, with a mean value of 7.2% for FM I and means ranging from 1.8% to 10.6% for FM II. 8.7% of the tested patients had a certain fragrance history. Of these, 25.2% were positive to FM I; reactivity to FM II was again dose-dependent and ranged from 8.1% to 17.6% in this subgroup. Comparing 2 groups of history - certain and none - values for sensitivity and specificity were calculated: sensitivity: FM I, 25.2%; 2.8% FM II, 8.1%; 14% FM II, 13.5%; 28% FM II, 17.6%; specificity: FM I, 96.5%; 2.8% FM II, 99.5%; 14% FM II, 98.8%; 28% FM II, 98.1%. 31/70 patients (44.3%) positive to 28% FM II were negative to FM I, with 14% FM II this proportion being 16/50 (32%). In the group of patients with a certain history, a total of 7 patients were found reacting to FM II only. Conversely, in the group of patients without any fragrance history, there were significantly more positive reactions to FM I than to any concentration of FM II. In conclusion, the new FM II detects additional patients sensitive to fragrances missed by FM I; the number of false-positive reactions is lower with FM II than with FM I. Considering sensitivity, specificity and the frequency of doubtful reactions, the medium concentration, 14% FM II, seems to be the most appropriate diagnostic screening tool.

Patch testing with a new fragrance mix - reactivity to the individual constituents and chemical detection in relevant cosmetic products

A new fragrance mix (FM II), with 6 frequently used chemicals not present in the currently used fragrance mix (FM I), was evaluated in 6 dermatological centres in Europe, as previously reported. In this publication, test results with the individual constituents and after repeated open application test (ROAT) of FM II are described. Furthermore, cosmetic products which had caused a contact dermatitis in patients were analysed for the presence of the individual constituents. In 1701 patients, the individual constituents of the medium (14%) and the highest (28%) concentration of FM II were simultaneously applied with the new mix at 3 concentrations (break-down testing for the lowest concentration of FM II (2.8%) was performed only if the mix was positive). ROAT was performed with the concentration of the FM II which had produced a positive or doubtful (+ or ?+) patch test reaction. Patients' products were analysed for the 6 target compounds by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

RESULTS

50 patients (2.9%) showed a positive reaction to 14% FM II and 70 patients (4.1%) to 28% FM II. 24/50 (48%) produced a positive reaction to 1 or more of the individual constituents of 14% FM II and 38/70 (54.3%) to 28% FM II, respectively. If doubtful reactions to individual constituents are included, the break-down testing was positive in 74% and 70%, respectively. Patients with a positive reaction to 14% FM II showed a higher rate of reactions to the individual constituent of the 28% FM II: 36/50 (72%). Positive reactions to individual constituents in patients negative to FM II were exceedingly rare. If doubtful reactions are regarded as negative, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for the medium concentration of FM II towards at least 1 individual constituent was 92.3% (exact 95% confidence interval 74.9-99.1%), 98.4% (97.7-99.0%), 48% (33.7-62.6%) and 99.9% (99.6-"100.0%), respectively. For the high concentration, the figures were very similar. The frequency of positive reactions to the individual constituents in descending order was the same for both FM II concentrations: hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral) > citral > farnesol > citronellol > alpha-hexyl-cinnamic aldehyde (AHCA). No unequivocally positive reaction to coumarin was observed. Lyral) was the dominant individual constituent, with positive reactions in 36% of patients reacting to 14% FM II and 37.1% to 28% FM II. 5/11 patients developed a positive ROAT after a median of 7 days (range 2-10). The 5 patients with a doubtful or negative reaction to 28% FM II were all ROAT negative except 1. There were 7 patients with a certain fragrance history and a positive reaction to either 28% or 14% FM II but a negative reaction to FM I. Analysis with GC-MS in a total of 24 products obtained from 12 patients showed at least 1-5 individual constituents per product: Lyral (79.2%), citronellol (87.5%), AHCA (58.3%), citral (50%) and coumarin (50%). The patients were patch test positive to Lyral, citral and AHCA. In conclusion, patients with a certain fragrance history and a negative reaction to FM I can be identified by FM II. Testing with individual constituents is positive in about 50% of cases reacting to either 14% or 28% FM II.

Pheromonal influences on sociosexual behavior in postmenopausal women

To determine whether a putative human sex-attractant pheromone increases specific sociosexual behaviors of postmenopausal women, we tested a chemically synthesized formula derived from research with underarm secretions from heterosexually active, fertile women that was recently tested on young women. Participants (n = 44, mean age = 57 years) were postmenopausal women who volunteered for a double-blind placebo-controlled study designed, to test an odorless pheromone, added to your preferred fragrance, to learn if it might increase the romance in your life. During the experimental 6-week period, a significantly greater proportion of participants using the pheromone formula (40.9%) than placebo (13.6%) recorded an increase over their own weekly average baseline frequency of petting, kissing, and affection (p = .02). More pheromone (68.2%) than placebo (40.9%) users experienced an increase in at least one of the four intimate sociosexual behaviors (p = .04). Sexual motivation frequency, as expressed in masturbation, was not increased in pheromone users. These results suggest that the pheromone formulation worn with perfume for a period of 6 weeks has sex-attractant effects for postmenopausal women.

Reactivity to patch tests with nickel sulfate and fragrance mix in infants

The pattern of patch test reactivity to nickel sulfate and fragrance mix was studied with respect to patch test performance, reproducibility and clinical relevance in a population of unselected infants followed prospectively from birth to 18 months of age. TRUE Testtrade mark patches with nickel sulfate in 3 concentrations, 200, 66 and 22 microg/cm(2), and fragrance mix 430 microg/cm(2) were used. A likely case of nickel sensitivity was defined as a reproducible positive reaction with at least homogeneous erythema and palpable infiltration occurring at least 2x and present at both the 12 and 18 months follow-up. 543 infants (268 girls and 275 boys) were tested at least 1x, 304 were tested at both 12 and 18 months. The prevalence of a reproducible positive reaction to nickel was 8.6% (20 girls and 6 boys). A transient positive reaction was observed in 111 children. Clinical relevance of nickel sensitivity was found in only 1 child. No reproducible positive reaction to fragrance mix was found. The high proportion of transient patch test reactivity to nickel sulfate 200 microg/cm(2) indicates that this standard concentration used for adults cannot be applied to infants. The interpretation of a single positive nickel patch test in infants must be assessed with caution and it is probably of non-specific or irritant nature.

Evaluation of the harmonizing effect of ylang-ylang oil on humans after inhalation

Scientific evaluations of the effects of fragrances on humans are rather scarce. The aim of this investigation was to study the effects of ylang-ylang oil (Cananga odorata, Annonaceae) on hu-man physiological parameters and self-evaluation. Twenty-four healthy volunteers participated in the experiments. Fragrances were administered by inhalation. Physiological parameters recorded were skin temperature, pulse rate, breathing rate and blood pressure. Self-evaluation was assessed in terms of alertness, attentiveness, calmness, mood, relaxation and vigor. Additionally, fragrances were rated in terms of pleasantness, intensity and effect. The present investigation showed that ylang-ylang oil may be characterized by the concept of "harmonization" rather than relaxation/sedation. Compared to an odorless placebo, ylang-ylang oil caused significant decreases in blood pressure and pulse rate as well as significant increases of subjective attentiveness and alertness. Correlational analyses revealed that the observed effects are mainly due to a subjective odor experience.

Evaluation of the dermal subchronic toxicity of phenoxyethyl isobutyrate in the rat

Phenoxyethyl isobutyrate (PEIB) is a fragrance and food ingredient that has been granted GRAS status and approved by the FDA for food use. The present studies investigated the dermal absorption parameters and subchronic toxicity of PEIB. For the absorption, distribution and elimination study, Sprague-Dawley rats received a dermal application of 2-[ring U 14C]-PEIB under occlusion for 6 h. PEIB was diluted in diethyl phthalate (DEP) to administer, a total application volume of 2 ml/kg, concentrations of 0.5, 5 and 50% ( congruent with 10, 100 and 1000 mg PEIB/kgBW). Approximately 61-69% of the applied dose was recovered from the dressing and skin surface washing procedure performed after 6-h exposure. By 72 h post dose, systemic elimination of radioactivity was congruent with 18 to 19% of the absorbed dose via the urine with small amounts also found in the feces (<1.0%). Terminal (72 h) tissue analysis showed that 0.35-0.72% of the applied dose of radioactivity was retained in the carcass with low levels (</=0.03%) measured also in the liver, kidney and gastrointestinal tract. Plasma levels increased in a dose-related manner, with concentrations equal to 0.02, 0.2 and 2.0 microg equiv/ml from low to high dose, respectively. The total recovery for these studies ranged from 92.2 to 96.2% of the dermally applied radioisotope. In a 13-week subchronic rat toxicity study, daily dermal applications of PEIB were made under occlusion for 6 h. All groups were dosed at a constant 2 ml/kgBW volume of PEIB in the DEP vehicle at concentrations calculated to administer 0, 100, 300 or 1000 mg PEIB/kgBW/day. Clinical observations, assessments of skin irritation, hematology, and blood chemistry, necropsy, and gross and histopathologic evaluation of tissues demonstrated no treatment-related effects. The local skin irritation and systemic toxicity no-observed-effect-levels (NOELs) for PEIB in this study were determined to be >1000 mg/kgBW/day.

Analysis of Mutual Information Content for EEG Responses to Odor Stimulation for Subjects Classified by Occupation

To investigate the changes of cortico-cortical connectivity during odor stimulation of subjects classified by occupation, the mutual information content of EEGs was examined for general workers, perfume salespersons and professional perfume researchers. Analysis of the averaged-cross mutual information content (A-CMI) from the EEGs revealed that among the professional perfume researchers changes in the A-CMI values during odor stimulation were more apparent in the frontal region of the brain, while for the general workers and perfume salespersons such changes were more conspicuous in the overall posterior temporal, parietal and frontal regions. These results indicate that the brains of professional perfume researchers respond to odors mainly in the frontal region, reflecting the function of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) due to the occupational requirement of these subjects to discriminate or identify odors. During odor stimulation, the perfume salespersons, although relatively more exposed to odors than the general workers, showed similar changes to the general workers. The A-CMI value is in inverse proportion to psychological preferences of the professional perfume researchers and perfume salespersons, though this is not the case with the general workers. This result suggests that functional coupling for people who are occupationally exposed to odors may be related to psychological preference.

Autonomic responses during inhalation of natural fragrance of “Cedrol” in humans

It is well known that odors affect behaviors and autonomic functions. Previous studies reported that some compounds in cedar wood essence induced behavioral changes including sedative effects. In the present study, we analyzed cardiovascular and respiratory functions while subjects were inhaling fumes of pure compound (Cedrol) which was extracted from cedar wood oil. Vaporized Cedrol (14.2+/-1.7 microg/l, 5 l/min) and blank air (5 l/min) were presented to healthy human subjects (n=26) via a face mask, while ECGs, heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and respiratory rates (RR) were monitored. Statistical analyses indicated that exposure to Cedrol significantly decreased HR, SBP, and DBP compared to blank air while it increased baroreceptor sensitivity. Furthermore, respiratory rate was reduced during exposure to Cedrol. These results, along with the previous studies reporting close relationship between respiratory and cardiovascular functions, suggest that these changes in respiratory functions were consistent with above cardiovascular alterations. Spectral analysis of HR variability indicated an increase in high frequency (HF) component (index of parasympathetic activity), and a decrease in ratio of low frequency to high frequency components (LF/HF) (index of sympathovagal balance) during Cedrol inhalation. Furthermore, Cedrol inhalation significantly decreased LF components of both SBP and DBP variability, which reflected vasomotor sympathetic activity. Taken together, these patterns of changes in the autonomic parameters indicated that Cedrol inhalation induced an increase in parasympathetic activity and a reduction in sympathetic activity, consistent with the idea of a relaxant effect of Cedrol.

The fragrance hand immersion study - an experimental model simulating real-life exposure for allergic contact dermatitis on the hands

Recently, we showed that 10 x 2% of consecutively patch-tested hand eczema patients had a positive patch test to a selection of fragrances containing fragrances relevant to hand exposure. In this study, we used repeated skin exposure to a patch test-positive fragrance allergen in patients previously diagnosed with hand eczema to explore whether immersion of fingers in a solution with or without the patch-test-positive fragrance allergen would cause or exacerbate hand eczema on the exposed finger. The study was double blinded and randomized. All participants had a positive patch test to either hydroxycitronellal or Lyral (hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde). Each participant immersed a finger from each hand, once a day, in a solution containing the fragrance allergen or placebo. During the first 2 weeks, the concentration of fragrance allergen in the solution was low (approximately 10 p.p.m.), whilst during the following 2 weeks, the concentration was relatively high (approximately 250 p.p.m.), imitating real-life exposure to a household product like dishwashing liquid diluted in water and the undiluted product, respectively. Evaluation was made using a clinical scale and laser Doppler flow meter. 3 of 15 hand eczema patients developed eczema on the finger immersed in the fragrance-containing solution, 3 of 15 on the placebo finger and 3 of 15 on both fingers. Using this experimental exposure model simulating real-life exposure, we found no association between immersion of a finger in a solution containing fragrance and development of clinically visible eczema on the finger in 15 participants previously diagnosed with hand eczema and with a positive patch test to the fragrance in question.

Evaluation of the dermal subchronic toxicity of diphenyl ether in the rat

Diphenyl ether (DPE) was investigated to determine the dermal absorption parameters and subchronic toxicity of this fragrance ingredient. For the absorption, distribution and elimination study, Sprague-Dawley rats received a dermal application of [14C]DPE under a semi-occlusive dressing for 6 h. DPE was diluted in diethyl phthalate (DEP) to administer a total application volume of 2 ml/kg and concentrations of 0.5, 5 and 50% (approximately equal to 10, 100 and 1000 mg DPE/kg body weight). Approximately 17.7% of the administered dose was eliminated in the urine, with small amounts also found in the feces (1.18-3.79%). At 72 h post-dosing, approximately 0.2% of the applied dose was retained in the body with low levels also measured in the liver, kidney and gastrointestinal tract (approximately equal to 0.04, 0.02 and 0.3%, respectively). The 13-week subchronic toxicity study was performed with groups of 12 Sprague-Dawley rats/sex/dose that received semi-occluded daily dermal applications of DPE for 6 h/day. All groups were dosed at a constant 2 ml/kg body weight volume of DPE in the DEP vehicle at concentrations to administer 0, 100, 300 or 1000 mg DPE/kg body weight/day. At the high dose level, there was a slight reduction in body weight gain in males (13%), increase in albumin (5-6%) and phosphate (10-15%) levels in both sexes, a reduction of cholesterol in females (14%), an increase in kidney (17%) and brain (8%) weights in males, and an increase in liver weight (18-19%) in both sexes. No histopathological lesions were seen in any organ examined. At 300 mg/kg body weight/day, the only notable findings were an increase in liver weight (10%) in both sexes and a slight increase in albumin (5%) in females. In addition, skin irritation reactions at the site of application were observed in all DPE dose groups. The systemic no-observed-effect level (NOEL) in this study is 100 mg/kg body weight/day. Owing to mitigating factors, the systemic findings were judged to lack biological significance and the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) was determined to be 1000 mg/kg body weight/day.

Fungistatic activity of some perfumes against otomycotic pathogens

The sporostatic effect of five otomycotic pathogens, i.e. Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Absidia corymbifera, Penicillium nigricans and Candida albicans to nine different perfumes was determined on the basis of their spore germination. These organisms were isolated from patients suffering from fungal infection of the external auditory canal. Volatile vapours emanating from musk, phulwari, jasmine, nagchampa and bela caused approximately 100% inhibition in spore germination of all the test fungi. Volatiles emanating from chandan, khas and hina showed no inhibition for the test pathogens, displaying their resistant character to these perfumes.

Understanding fragrance allergy using an exposure-based risk assessment approach

Conducting a sound skin sensitization risk assessment prior to the introduction of new ingredients and products into the market place is essential. The process by which low-molecular-weight chemicals induce and elicit skin sensitization is dependent on many factors, including the ability of the chemical to penetrate the skin, react with protein, and trigger a cell-mediated immune response. Based on our chemical, cellular and molecular understanding of allergic contact dermatitis, it is possible to carry out a quantitative risk assessment. Specifically, by estimating the exposure to the allergen and its allergenic potency, it is feasible to assess quantitatively the sensitization risk of an ingredient in a particular product type. This paper focuses on applying exposure-based risk assessment tools to understanding fragrance allergy for 2 hypothetical products containing the fragrance allergen cinnamic aldehyde. The risk assessment process predicts that an eau de toilette leave-on product containing 1000 ppm or more cinnamic aldehyde would pose an unacceptable risk of induction of skin sensitization, while a shampoo, containing the same level of cinnamic aldehyde, would pose an acceptable risk of induction of skin sensitization, based on limited exposure to the ingredient from a rinse-off product application.

Criteria for development of a database for safety evaluation of fragrance ingredients

Over 2000 different ingredients are used in the manufacture of fragrances. The majority of these ingredients have been used for many decades. Despite this long history of use, all of these ingredients need continued monitoring to ensure that each ingredient meets acceptable safety standards. As with other large databases of existing chemicals, fulfilling this need requires an organized approach to identify the most important potential hazards. One such approach, specifically considering the dermal route of exposure as the most relevant one for fragrance ingredients, has been developed. This approach provides a rational selection of materials for review and gives guidance for determining the test data that would normally be considered necessary for the elevation of safety under intended conditions of use. As a first step, the process takes into account the following criteria: quantity of use, consumer exposure, and chemical structure. These are then used for the orderly selection of materials for review with higher quantity, higher exposure, and the presence of defined structural alerts all contributing to a higher priority for review. These structural alerts along with certain exposure and volume limits are then used to develop guidelines for determining the quality and quantity of data considered necessary to support an adequate safety evaluation of the chosen materials, taking into account existing data on the substance itself as well as on closely related analogs. This approach can be considered an alternative to testing; therefore, it is designed to be conservative but not so much so as to require excessive effort when not justified.

Delayed-type hypersensitivity to contact allergens in psoriasis. A clinical evaluation

The possibility for patch testing procedures to detect contact allergy was examined in 85 hospitalized patients with forms of psoriasis. Exclusion criteria were active lesions on the back, the use of strong topical corticosteroids, methotrexate, cyclosporin and UV therapy. After screening, a group of 47 patients with different forms of psoriasis were selected for patch testing. Personal history, including topical treatment, occupation and domestic circumstances, were reasons to extend the standard series of allergens. Tars, nickel sulfate, perfume and balsam of Peru scored high. The overall positive rate was 68%. This is higher than that observed in earlier studies. The unexpected results are discussed in the light of the possible mechanism of action.

Estimating dilutions for patch testing skin care products: a practical method

When patch testing, it is helpful to patch test with the patient's own topical products. However, the thickness (viscosity) of the product often prevents easy measurement for dilution. A method of estimating volume: volume dilutions that requires minimal investment in supplies is presented. This method is only applicable to personal products and is not suitable for industrial or household chemicals.

Quantitative aspects of isoeugenol contact allergy assessed by use and patch tests

The clinical implications of sensitization to the fragrance material isoeugenol were studied in 19 subjects. Patch testing with serial dilutions of isoeugenol and a repeated open application test (ROAT) were performed. The minimum effect level under patch test conditions was below 0.01% isoeugenol in 4/19 (20%) of the test subjects. The ROAT was performed with a test solution of 0.2% isoeugenol in ethanol, which is the recommended maximum concentration used in perfumes, ethanol being applied as vehicle control. 4 weeks was the maximum exposure period. The upper arm was used as test site the 1st 14 days and the upper arm as well as the neck for the next 14 days. 12/19 (63%) of test subjects had a positive ROAT. 4 of the responders (33%) reacted beyond day 7, but none after day 14. Use testing on the neck 14 days did not add any further ROAT-positive cases, compared with testing on the upper arm. The sensitivity found on patch testing may be a guidance for the outcome of use tests with the same compound. In this study, all subjects with a positive use test to isoeugenol 0.2% in ethanol also demonstrated on patch testing a minimum effect level of 0.2% or lower. Data from serial dilution patch and use tests may contribute significant information to assessment of the relationship between patch test responses and clinical contact hypersensitivity, and thus the safety of allergens used in cosmetics.

Threshold responses in cinnamic-aldehyde-sensitive subjects: results and methodological aspects

Cinnamic aldehyde is an important fragrance material and contact allergen. The present study was performed to provide quantitative data on the eliciting capacity of cinnamic aldehyde, to be considered in assessment of clinical relevance and health hazard. The skin response to serial dilution patch tests and 6-week graded use tests with 0.02, 0.1 and 0.8% cinnamic aldehyde in ethanol was studied in a group of cinnamic-aldehyde-sensitive eczema patients. The minimum effect level demonstrated was 0.02% cinnamic aldehyde on patch testing and 0.1% cinnamic aldehyde on use testing, which are allowed usage concentrations in different kind of cosmetics. 72% (13/18) developed eczema in the use test performed with an alcoholic solution of cinnamic aldehyde on healthy upper arm skin. 6 of the 13 use-test-positive subjects (46%) reacted later than day 7, indicating that the standard exposure period of 7 days in use testing may not be sufficient, if low concentrations or volatile substances are used. A significant correlation between patch test sensitivity and the outcome of use testing was found (1,<0.001), which should be considered in designing future use test studies and advising patients. Detailed exposure information is needed to evaluate more fully the consequences of cinnamic aldehyde sensitivity.

The fragrance mix and its constituents: a 14-year material

Results from 14 years of patch testing with the fragrance mix and its constituents are reviewed. From 1979-1992, 8215 consecutive patients were patch tested with the fragrance mix and 449 (5.5%) had a positive reaction. An increase in the frequency of reactions to fragrance mix was seen from the first 5-year period to the last. Only 54.4% of the patients tested in the last 5-year period with the individual constituents of the mix had at least 1 positive reaction. The results of testing with the constituents are the basis for a discussion of methodological problems. A significant decrease in the frequency of reaction to cinnamic aldehyde was registered, at the same time as the test concentration was reduced from 2% to 1% pet. However, no significant variations in the frequency of reactions to oak moss were seen, notwithstanding a similar reduction in test concentration.

Investigations of animal blood samples after fragrance drug inhalation by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with chemical ionization and selected ion monitoring

The fragrance compounds linalool (1) and linalyl acetate (2) could be detected, identified and quantified (1: 7-9 ng ml-1; and 2: 1-2 ng ml-1 and 4-5 ng ml-1 as free linalool) in blood samples after inhalation in animal experiments (mice) by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) with chemical ionization (CI) (ammonia); selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode (1: m/z 81, 137 and 154; 2: 47, 57 and 137) and GC/flame ionization detection (FID). The inhalation of these monoterpenes in concentrations of 5 mg l-1 air leads to a significant reduction of the motility of the test animals down to 30-40% with respect to the control group.

The human skin: fragrances and pheromones

Non-human mammalian pheromones are commonly used as perfumery ingredients. The actual purpose for using these compounds is as a fixative or carrier for the odor effects of the other ingredients as well as a contributor, in part, to the over-all scent of the perfume. Although such materials are used for their fixative and odor qualities rather than their pheromonal effects, perfumes are generally marketed as having the ability to enhance sexual attractiveness. While providing a scent may elicit a positive pleasant response, this should not be confused with a pheromone response. The attractive effect of perfumes is principally related to the effect of the pleasant scent. A more logical approach would be to use human pheromones which, for humans, are both more natural and more effective as true sensual attractants. It seems likely that implementation of this approach will constitute an important paradigm in the perfume industry as perfumery moves from the realm of art to that of science.

90-day dermal toxicity study and neurotoxicity evaluation of nitromusks in the albino rat

Musk ketone, musk xylene, musk tibetene and moskene, synthetic musks used in fragrances, were applied dermally to rats in daily doses of 240 (musk ketone and musk xylene only), 75, 24 or 7.5 mg/kg body weight for 90 days. The chemically related musk ambrette, a known neurotoxin in rats, was used as a positive control. While musk ambrette was clearly neurotoxic and caused testicular atrophy, as had been previously reported, the other compounds tested caused neither effect. The only effects of application of these materials were some organ weight changes at the higher doses, but these were not associated with histopathological changes in any of the tissues. The no-effect levels were: musk ketone, 75 mg/kg for males and females; musk xylene, 75 mg/kg for males and 24 mg/kg for females; moskene, 24 mg/kg for males and 75 mg/kg (highest dose administered) for females; and musk tibetene, 75 mg/kg (highest dose) for males and females.