enzymatic detergent asthma, an allergic reaction experienced by persons who have become sensitized to alcalase, an enzyme contained in some laundry detergents. Alcalase is produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis, and persons sensitive to the enzyme are also usually allergic to the bacterium. Asthmatic symptoms may progress in severe cases to an allergic alveolitis. The most serious cases were originally among workers in plants that manufacture laundry detergents.
