Sauna builder's asthma caused by obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon) dust

Abstract

Two carpenters developed rhinitis, conjunctivitis, bronchial wheezing, and dyspnoea while using obeche (Triplochiton scieroxylon, African maple) at their work while they built saunas. Skin prick tests showed an immediate reaction, specific IgE to obeche was detected in their serum, and bronchial provocation test with obeche gave an immediate reaction with decrease of FEV1 and PEF values. The symptoms disappeared after avoiding the use of obeche. Obeche may cause a health hazard to carpenters who are exposed to this dust and who may develop allergic symptoms after the exposure.