Hypersensitivity among woodworkers in South Africa.

A group of South African woodworkers was investigated in respect of allergenic activity of three indigenous woods, yellowwood, stinkwood and blackwood, and Brazilian imbuia. Histories were taken, skin-prick tests performed, and total serum IgE levels estimated. A high rate of skin sensitivity was found, as well as previously undocumented skin sensitivities to stinkwood and yellowwood.