Trichloroethylene Hypersensitivity Syndrome Is Potentially Mediated Through Its Metabolite Chloral Hydrate

Introduction: Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chlorinated solvent used extensively in industries. It has been linked to numerous biological possible health effects. However, workers exposed to TCE present with trichloroethylene hypersensitivity syndrome (THS), which is characterized by fever, generalized rash and liver dysfunction. Question regarding the culprit causative compound is not well understood. The present study pertains to identify the culprit causative compound and establish a screening test for subjects at risk of THS. Methods: After discharge for 2 to 128 months, 19 rehabilitation workers diagnosed with THS were follow-up assessed by questionnaire investigation, health examination, and patch test. TCE and its main metabolites chloral hydrate, trichloroethanol and trichloroacetic acid were used as allergens at different concentrations in a skin patch test. The patch test study also included 22 control healthy workers exposed to TCE (exposure =12 weeks), and 20 validation new workers exposed to T...