%0 Journal Article %A Erica Ferraz %A Luisa Karla Arruda %A Marcos C. Borges %A Satoshi Kitamura %A Ericson Bagatin %A Elcio Oliveira Vianna %T Asthma and allergy to laboratory animals in university employees: Need for prophylaxis %D 2011 %J European Respiratory Journal %P p4204 %V 38 %N Suppl 55 %X Introduction: Subjects exposed to laboratory animals are at high risk of developing respiratory and allergic diseases. The reported prevalence of occupational asthma ranges from 1.4 to 9.5%, and occupational rhinitis from 2.9 to 18.8% (reviewed by Foletti, I. et al. Allergy 2008; 63:834-41). In the moment, few studies have looked at programs to prevent these diseases.Objectives: To assess the prevalence of asthma and atopic sensitization to common allergens, and to evaluate the employment of prophylactic measures in two Brazilian universities.Methods: Subjects exposed to laboratory animals in two Brazilian universities (University of S. Paulo and State University of Campinas) answered to specific questionnaires to assess work conditions, underwent spirometry, bronchial provocation with mannitol, and skin prick tests to eleven common allergens and five work-related allergens (rat, mouse, guinea pig, hamster, and rabbit).Results: Eighty-five subjects (38±11 years old, 59 men) were evaluated. Fourty-four (51.8%) subjects were sensitized to at least 1 common allergen, and nine (10.6%) were sensitized to at least 1 work-related allergen. Twelve subjects (14%) presented hyperresponsiveness to mannitol. Personal protective equipments were available at work for 98%; however, 51% did not wear mask all the time when in contact with animals. Twenty-six percent of subjects received formal orientation about the risk assessment and hazard recognition related to laboratory animal allergy.Conclusion: In this ongoing study, prevalence was relevant to support prophylactic measures. These measures need reinforcement. %U