The Medical journal of Australia
-
Urticaria and angio-oedema are a symptom complex covering a wide range of clinical disorders. Specific types are now well described, and it appears that many cases of idiopathic chronic urticaria which make up the vast majority of patients referred for assessment are due to intolerance to natural salicylates, preservatives and colouring agents. There is, therefore, an urgent need for legislation to enforce the clear identification of these chemicals in processed food and drugs.
-
Occupational asthma is a hypersensitivity syndrome, and must be distinguished from non-specific aggravation of existing asthma. Probably only a minority of the causal agents produce sensitization by allergic mechanisms. The important clinical features of occupational asthma are the latent period before the onset of symptoms, the characteristic periodicity of symptoms, and the progressive increase in the severity of symptoms with continuing exposure. ⋯ Identification of the agent responsible is desirable but not essential to the diagnosis, and specific bronchial challenge with the causal agent should be reserved for atypical cases. Symptomatic or prophylactic drug treatment should never be more than a short-term measure. The most effective treatment is for the patient to change his job.