Occupational Asthma Caused by Orangutan in a Zoo Animal Handler

Abstract

A zoo animal handler developed bronchial asthma for the first time from handling orangutans (Pongo pygmaes). He had prior allergic reactions (rhinoconjunctivitis and urticarial rash), but no asthma, to deer and other hoofed animals in the zoo. In a worksite challenge, immediate and late onset of asthmatic symptoms and airflow obstruction were provoked by carrying a baby orangutan for about 20 minutes.