ABSTRACT
In this chapter we deal with predictive tests that are intended to identify the
ability of substances to induce allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in man. Such
predictive or prospective testing was initially performed in groups of 100-200
volunteers (Draize et al., 1944; Schwartz, 1960). Conditions were arranged in one
or more ways so that the likelihood of sensitization was increased. 1. The
concentration of the test substance at induction was increased. 2. The material
was repeatedly applied to the sensitization site. 3. The barrier layer was damaged
(scraping, stripping or detergent) or rendered more permeable by occlusion or
DMSO. 4. Inflammation in the sensitization site was induced by SLS (sodium
lauryl sulfate), freezing or scraping (Kligman, 1966a and 1966b; Marzulli and
Maibach, 1983, Kligman and Epstein, 1975). Immunoadjuvants were not used.
