While it is generally well recogniz

While it is generally well recognized that healthcare workers are exposed to biocides and antimicrobials that induce sensitization, they are also exposed to high levels of antimicrobials such as triclosan that are not generally recognized to cause sensitization. A study conducted by MacIsaac et al found that use of triclosan-containing antibacterial soaps in healthcare settings represents a substantial and potentially biologically relevant source of occupational triclosan exposure.58 Triclosan (2,4,4′-trichloro-2′-hydroxydiphenyl ether) is generally recognized as an EDC.59–61 Owing to the endocrine disputing properties, emerging evidences suggest that triclosan exposure may contribute to an increased cancer risk62 and development effects such as decreased birth length.63 In addition, it has been suggested that exposure to EDCs, including triclosan, may be at least in part responsible for recent increases in the frequency of asthma and allergic disease. A recent study found levels of urinary triclosan to be positively associated with aeroallergen, and food sensitization and asthma exacerbation.64,65 Animal studies support these findings and suggest that while triclosan may not be allergic itself, it may act as an adjuvant and enhance allergic responses to an known allergen.66 Owing to the potential for high exposure to triclosan and the suspected health effects mentioned above, triclosan is currently under review by the national toxicology programs for developmental, immune, and reproductive toxicity.