Ammoniums quaternaires et pathologies professionnelles

Quaternary ammonium compounds are widely used in many occupations (conservation, cleaning and disinfection) and all the workers in these occupations are exposed to the potentially irritant or allergenic effects to these products. The clinical manifestations are usually dermatological but respiratory symptoms such as rhinitis or respiratory symptoms are more and more often seen by occupational disease. The nature of the product used, its concentration, and how it is used are important factors to consider, even though the pathophysiological mechanisms involved have not yet been established.