Why knee protectors may led to allergy

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Jan. 14 (UPI) -- A Swedish researcher says she may have an explanation for how neoprene rubber products can sometimes lead to an allergic reaction.

Kristin Samuelsson of the University of Gothenburg in Sweden says the key may be isothiocyanates -- formed on the skin following repeated contact with rubber. Diphenylthiourea is a substance used in the production of rubber, including the neoprene rubber that is used in wetsuits, knee protectors and other products with which people have close and frequent contact.

Isothiocyanates are among the substances that are formed from diphenylthiourea when it is applied to skin, Samuelsson says.

"Substances that appear at first glance to be harmless can cause allergic reactions since skin enzymes may help to form new, allergenic substances from them, giving rise to dermatitis and other skin problems. This is the case for isothiocyanates, which are formed on the skin following repeated contact with rubber," Samuelsson says in a statement.

The findings presented in Samuelsson's thesis have led to the initiation of a new study at the Skin Clinic at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, in which patients with suspected allergy to neoprene rubber will be tested using the isothiocyanate that is formed in the skin.

Samuelsson's thesis had led to a new study at Sahlgrenska University.