Cytotoxicity and Skin Sensitisation Testing
topic
Cytotoxicity testing extracts fabric specimens in physiological media and exposes mammalian cell cultures to extracts under ISO 10993-5 protocols, measuring cell viability reduction as a proxy for toxic substance migration; skin sensitisation uses guinea pig maximisation or local lymph node assay in vitro alternatives to evaluate allergenic potential of textile chemical residues.
Role
Ensures medical textiles, infant clothing, and intimate apparel fabrics do not release cytotoxic or allergenic chemicals at concentrations that could cause contact dermatitis, tissue irritation, or immune sensitisation in the most vulnerable user populations requiring highest safety standards.