Allergic contact dermatitis to woods of the genus Dalbergia in musical instruments.

BACKGROUND

The woods of trees of the genus Dalbergia are a frequent cause of allergic contact dermatitis.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the different patterns of symptoms and sensitisation to woods of the genus Dalbergia in four patients whose regular work is linked to music, either as performers (two patients) or instrument makers.

RESULTS

The patients showed extensive cross-reactivity between the different Dalbergia woods. The two musicians exhibited symptoms exclusively in the contact areas, while the instrument makers showed a pattern of airborne symptoms. The period from sensitisation to the development of symptoms varied greatly among the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis to Dalbergia woods differ markedly depending on the route of contact. Cross-reactivity between the woods of this genus is very wide. The sensitising potential varies between the various Dalbergia woods, which require different contact periods depending on their sensitising power.