Dermal toxicity of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, chromium, and nickel in guinea pigs

Guinea pigs were dermally exposed to nickel (Ni) plus chromium (Cr) and Ni plus Cr plus linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) for 30 days. The exposure resulted in significantly enhanced activities of skin enzymes such as acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase, lactate dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutas e, and tyrosinase. The amino nitrogen, lipid peroxidation, and contents of histamine also increased significantly in skin. The glutathione content dec reased while the accumulation of Cr and Ni significantly increased in skin. The alterations were more marked in the Ni plus Cr plus LAS exposed group.