Work-related symptoms among workers exposed to black tea dust

Abstract

Background: Tea may be classified as unfermented green, semi-fermented oolong and fermented black. All of these types are derived from Camellia sinensis, the Tea Plant, which contains the low molecular weight (LMW) agent Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), probably responsible for allergic reactions. The aim of our study was to asses the work-related allergic symptoms and IgE-mediated sensitivity among black tea packers. Material and Methods: Study groups comprised 26 black tea packers (group 1) and 20 office workers (group 2). A questionnaire, skin prick tests (SPTs) to common allergens and black tea, evaluation of specific IgE (asIgE) to Camellia sinensis and moulds, pre-and post-work-shift spirometry were performed. Results: At least 1 symptom suggesting allergic disease was reported by 85% of the tea packers and 60% of the office workers. The most frequent positive results of SPTs were obtained with moulds (8%). A small decline in FEV 1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 s) after the work shift was observed among tea packers sensitized to moulds. Conclusions: Although specific sensitization to black tea was not observed in our study groups, cough and skin symptoms were significantly more frequently among the tea packers than in office workers. The irritant impact on the airways and the skin of tea dust and/or sensitization to moulds contaminating tea leaves are being suspected.

Immediate and delayed contact reactions to white and green tea blends

“…White, green, and black tea are among the major tea types, classified according to variation in harvesting, processing, including fermentation, and also the variety of Camellia sinensis used 6 . Previously, nasal and respiratory symptoms in tea workers have been ascribed to either irritation and/or sensitization to molds 2,4,7 . Because our patient had a small reaction to A. alternata compared to her reactions to pollen, this is less likely to be the explanation for her symptoms.…”

“…6 Previously, nasal and respiratory symptoms in tea workers have been ascribed to either irritation and/or sensitization to molds. 2,4,7 Because our patient had a small reaction to A. alternata compared to her reactions to pollen, this is less likely to be the explanation for her symptoms.…”

“…ACD from IPPD in face masks has been reported previously in scuba divers. 4 Contact urticaria to BRM in a face mask has also been described. 5 BRM is tested in our baseline series and comprises IPPD along with N-cyclohexyl-N-phenyl-4-phenylenediamine and N, Ndiphenyl-p-phenyldiamine.…”

“…Despite the large production and worldwide consumption, relatively few reports of immediate hypersensitivity to tea have appeared, mainly in tea workers. [1][2][3][4][5] We report a case of immediate and delayed contact sensitization in an occupational setting.…”

“…Tea, the hot water infusion of the young buds and leaves of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (Theaceae), is the most widely consumed of produced beverages in the world. Despite the large production and worldwide consumption, relatively few reports of immediate hypersensitivity to tea have appeared, mainly in tea workers 1‐5 …”