Acetylation of reed (Arundo donax) to prevent the contact dermatitis of woodwind musicians

A reed (Arundo donax) was acetylated to prevent serious cheilitis (reed allergy) in woodwind musicians in contact with the vibrating plate made of the reed. The reed was acetylated almost completely at 120 °C for 8 to 24 h. The maximum weight% gain (WPG) of the reed was lower than that of wood, reflecting a lower number of active reaction sites. The WPG of the inner part of the reed was slightly higher than that of the outer part, probably because the reactivity of the parenchyma cells is higher than that of the bundle sheaths. The acetylated reeds were tested by eleven skilled musicians suffering from the reed allergy. Eight musicians reported no allergic reactions. Three musicians reacted with the acetylated reed, but the reactions were much weaker than those induced by the unmodified reed. Thus, acetylation has been proven effective in preventing reed allergy. The patch test was not sufficient to detect allergies because although some musicians tested negative in the patch test, their mouths reacted seriously.