Occupational asthma caused by Ipe (Tabebuia spp) dust.

BACKGROUND

Ipe is a resistant hardwood that contains naphtoquinones. It is easily found and frequently used in South and Central America. Naphtoquinones are skin sensitizers.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case of occupational asthma related to Ipe wood dust.

METHODS

The patient was submitted to a clinical evaluation consisting of a respiratory symptom questionnaire, occupational history, serial measurements of lung function by spirometry, skin prick tests, patch tests, specific IgE and specific bronchial provocation tests to Ipe dust.

RESULTS

Serial lung function measurements showed sustained regression of obstruction following removal from exposure. Skin prick tests, but not patch tests, were positive to Ipe, and a specific bronchial challenge showed a late asthmatic reaction. Specific IgE search was negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to Ipe wood dust can lead to occupational asthma. The underlying mechanism should be investigated.