BAKERS ASTHMA RELATED TO SOYBEAN LECITHIN EXPOSURE

We report two cases of soybean-lecithin-induced asthma in bakers. The patients experienced clinical symptoms in relation to an occupational exposure to this additive. Skin tests were positive with soybean lecit hin, RAST showed a sensitization to soybean, and bronchial challenge t ests were positive for a dilution of 10(-3) with this allergen. The sa me tests remained negative among healthy and asthmatic controls. Soybe an lecithin, a common additive in bakery, must be added to the list of numerous aeroallergens involved in baiter's asthma.