Alternative methods for skin irritation testing: the current status.

The potential for chemicals to cause skin corrosion or skin irritation is an important consideration in establishing procedures for the safe handling, packing and transport of chemicals. The determination of skin corrosion and irritation potential is therefore included in international regulatory requirements for the testing of chemicals. The standard approach used involves applying the test material to the shaved skin of albino rabbits (1). Testing for skin corrosion and irritation in laboratory animals has the potential to cause them severe discomfort or pain. For this reason, the prediction of chemAlternative Methods for Skin Irritation Testing: the Current Status