HET-CAM Test
Description
The HET-CAM (Hen's Egg Test on the Chorioallantoic Membrane) test is an alternative in vitro method used to assess the ocular or skin irritant potential of a product without resorting to animal testing. This test is based on the application of the test substance to the chorioallantoic membrane of an embryonated hen's egg, which is richly vascularized, simulating the inflammatory reactions of human tissues.
Recommended in alternative strategies to in vivo tests, the HET CAM test is particularly suitable for cosmetic products, detergents, chemical substances or technical formulations, in the early phase of development or for risk classification.
Objectives of the HET-CAM test
- Assess the acute irritant potential of a substance on sensitive tissues
- Detect effects such as redness, edema, hemorrhage or coagulation
- Classify the substance according to its vascular reactivity
- Provide an irritation index (IS) allowing objective interpretation
- Meet the requirements of European regulations (cosmetics, REACH, CLP, etc.)
Methodology
Fertilized chicken eggs are incubated until day 9 of embryogenesis, then the shell is removed to expose the chorioallantoic membrane. The test substance is placed on the surface, and the appearance of vascular reactions is observed for 5 minutes.
The three observed effects are:
- Hyperemia (redness due to dilation of capillaries)
- Hemorrhage (rupture of capillaries)
- Coagulation (precipitation of vascular proteins)
An irritation index is calculated based on the time to onset of each effect, allowing a classification: non-irritant, slightly irritating, moderately irritating or severely irritating.
Industrial applications
- Cosmetic products (raw formulations or finished products)
- Chemical raw materials
- Detergents, solvents, industrial mixtures
- Maintenance or cleaning products
- Preliminary screening before more extensive regulatory testing (e.g. BCOP, ICE)
Why go through YesWeLab?
YesWeLab supports you in carrying out your HET-CAM tests through a network of carefully selected laboratories. Our partners are equipped to conduct these tests in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), with recognized expertise in preclinical and toxicological evaluation.
Our scientific team helps you choose the best analytical strategy based on your objectives (early assessment, substitution strategy, regulatory compliance). Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily track your requests, from sample submission to results receipt.
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