In vivo testing of the protective efficacy of gloves against allergen-containing products using an open chamber system

In vitro degradation and permeation testing of glove materials is important in the assessment of the protective efficacy against chemicals. In vivo factors, such as skin-glove contact, skin temperature and humidity may, however, influence the protective effect of the glove. These factors must thus be considered in the overall assessment of a protective glove. An in vivo glove test should as far as possible imitate the practical use of the glove, as well as the exposure to the product/chemical against which the glove should protect. An open chamber system for human in vivo glove testing is presented. This system enables simultaneous testing of 6-8 gloves with 3 provocation times for each glove. Positive controls (no glove) can be included. As a control of the subject's present reactivity to the chemical of interest, conventional patch testing with a dilution series can be performed in parallel. The method is easy to use and convenient for the patient. It promises to be a useful clinical tool in individual preventive measures against contact allergy. The method can be used in glove testing against many hazardous chemicals, both contact allergens and toxic/irritant compounds in workplaces such as the plastics industry and the chemical industry.