Comparison of allergenicity of a perfume in animals (guinea pig maximization test) and in humans (usage test).

Using the Guinea Pig Maximization Test, the sensitization rate of a perfume was shown to be 10 per cent, which means a mild allergenicity rate. A usage sensitization trial was performed with the same perfume included in a soap, on 300 persons for 2-3 months. Seventy-five of these, all house-wives, were randomly selected and tested epicutaneously, after the trial. One woman reacted allergically towards the perfume. This means a sensitization rate of 1.3 per cent, which is a maximum value, as she could, theoretically, have been sensitized before.