Objectives for Assessing Sensitization of a Substance

The general objectives for assessing the sensitization potential of a substance are to examine whether there are indications from human experience of skin allergy or respiratory hypersensitivity following exposure to the substance, and whether the substance has a skin sensitization potential based on tests in animals. 

The likelihood that a substance will induce skin sensitization or respiratory hypersensitivity in humans who are exposed to this substance is determined by several factors including the route, duration and magnitude of exposure, and the potency of the substance (EC 2003). 

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