Update on occupational allergy, including asthma, to soluble platinum salts.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review aims to evaluate recent literature on occupational platinum salt exposure and allergy and asthma in the context of existing evidence.

Recent findings: A major recent development is that large quantitative platinum salt exposure datasets have become available and are finding applications in epidemiological studies. These exposure data are expected to lead to higher quality epidemiological studies focusing on exposure response relations, modifiers of exposure and sensitization risk. The exposure data might also improve medical referral advice as part of medical surveillance studies and contribute to improved evidence on the effectiveness of exposure referral.

Summary: Hopefully, the availability of exposure databases form a stimulus for more exposure response studies and risk assessments leading to science based primary prevention approaches. The availability of more detailed exposure data can guide job transfer decisions in occupational clinical practice.