An Animal Model of Trichloroethylene-Induced Skin Sensitization in BALB/c Mice

The study established a model of trichloroethylene (TCE)-induced skin sensitization in BALB/c mice, showing a sensitization rate of 38.3% in the dorsal painted group. It revealed significant skin inflammation, including increased epidermal thickness and inflammatory cell infiltration. Key proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-2 were significantly elevated, peaking at 72 hours post-treatment, indicating their crucial role in TCE-induced skin sensitization. This model provided a new method for studying the immunological mechanisms of TCE sensitization and suggested that TCE sensitization involves a complex network of cytokines similar to allergic contact dermatitis.