PREDICTIVE VALUE OF ASSESSMENT OF LYMPH-NODE WEIGHT AND LYMPHOCYTE-T PROLIFERATION IN CONTACT SENSITIVITY IN ACRYLATES

An assessment of T-lymphocyte proliferation and lymph node weight is proposed as a predictive test for contact sensitizers of industrial origin. Data are presented showing increased T-lymphocyte proliferation following epicutaneous application of a variety of industrially important acrylate-like chemicals which appear to correlate well with their ability to sensitize in the guinea pig. These data were compared with those obtained after application of 2,4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene (DNFB) a strong sensitizer, and 2,4-dinitrothiocyanatebenzene (DNTB) a nonsensitizer when given epicutaneously. It is suggested that this quantitative approach, in parallel with a simple one-dose immunization, may provide a better picture of sensitization potential than the longer multidose immunizations currently in use.