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Occupational dermatitis (OD) is an inflammatory skin disease stemming from exposure to specific substances within a work setting. As the second most prevalent occupational health concern in 2020, affecting 1.8 per 10,000 workers, OD poses a significant challenge to workforce well‐being and imposes a substantial economic burden through lost wages, decreased productivity, and increased healthcare spending. Dermatologists emerge as pivotal figures in recognizing risk factors and delivering essential care to individuals with OD. This review focuses on chemical hazards and toxic substances regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration across general industry, maritime, and construction sectors. It explores the background of each hazard, pathophysiology to dermatitis, and human cases reported between 2017 and 2023 for formaldehyde, chromium, vinyl chloride, and cadmium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hair dyeing is a popular practice dating back to ancient Egyptian times. Initially, hair dye use was restricted to concealing grey and white hairs of the elderly population. However, in recent times, its use is common among the younger generation as a fashion statement. Hair dye contact dermatitis is a common dermatological condition encountered by dermatologists. It is a delayed type of hy- persensitivity reaction that commonly affects the scalp and the vicinity of hair line and neck. Para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a synthetic aromatic amine is the most common allergen specifically implicated in hair dye contact dermatitis. Para-phenyl- enediamine was announced as the allergen of the year in 2006 by the American Contact Dermatitis Society. Contact allergy to para-phenylenediamine can occur in 0.1–2.3% of the general population. Epicutaneous patch testing is the gold standard test for the diagnosis of hair dye contact dermatitis. However, para-phenylenediamine carries a risk of cross-sensitivity and co-sensitization to other allergens. Apart from contact dermatitis, hair dye use is also associated with various other cutaneous adverse effects such as pigmentary changes, hair loss, skin malignancies and autoimmune disorders. Due to the various adverse effects associated with hair dye use, it is prudent to look for safer alternatives to allergenic hair dyes. In this article, we review the epidemiology, cutaneous and systemic adverse effects associated with hair dye use, patch testing, preventive strategies to minimize the risk of hair dye contact dermatitis, and treatment aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The objective was to investigate self-reported hand eczema, and skin complaints at other skin locations among workers exposed to particulate matter, especially ultrafine particles. Method We conducted a cross-sectional study on workers from one ferro-silicon smelter plant, eight chimney sweeper stations and one firefighter station across Norway. Participants answered an extended version of the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2022), with additional questions about whole-body skin complaints and visible dust deposition. Results are presented as descriptive data using firefighters as reference group. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated using logistic regression on lifetime prevalence of hand eczema adjusted for potential confounders and mediators. P-values were calculated using likelihood ratio test against the crude OR. Results A total of 186 participants answered the questionnaire: 74 chimney sweepers, 52 firefighters and 60 smelter workers. Participation rate was 95.0, 94.5 and 63.6%, respectively. Lifetime prevalence of hand eczema was 9.5, 9.6, and 28.3%, respectively. The point prevalence of hand eczema was 1.4, 1.9 and 10.0%, respectively. We estimated OR for lifetime hand eczema in smelter workers to 4.36 [95% CI: 1.31–14.43, p = 0.016] and for lifetime skin complaints in other locations to 2.25 [95% CI: 0.98–5.18, p = 0.058]. The lifetime prevalence of skin complaints at other locations was 18.9, 23.1 and 40.0%, respectively. The point prevalence was 14.9, 9.6 and 16.7%, respectively. These estimates were not statistically significant but indicates that smelter workers have more skin complaints also at other locations. Conclusion This study reports a more than four-fold increased risk of hand eczema in smelter workers, and possibly a higher risk of skin complaints in other body locations, compared to the other occupations. Longitudinal studies with larger population are needed to verify the marked increased risk of eczema among smelters and establish causation.

Contact dermatitis is a common cutaneous inflammatory condition triggered by exposure to irritant substances or allergens. Nickel is the most prevalent allergen, a metal widely used in accessories, furniture, office materials, and the food industry, with multiple exposure pathways, making it difficult to assess which exposure is causing allergic dermatitis. Here, we report a case of an administrative worker with chronic hand eczema, limited to the radial metacarpophalangeal region of the left hand, caused by occupational exposure to nickel, confirmed by nickel deposition test on the hand and a positive test with a metallic stapler used at her workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective was to investigate self-reported hand eczema, and skin complaints at other skin locations among workers exposed to particulate matter, especially ultrafine particles. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study on workers from one ferro-silicon smelter plant, eight chimney sweeper stations and one firefighter station across Norway. Participants answered an extended version of the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2022), with additional questions about whole-body skin complaints and visible dust deposition. Results are presented as descriptive data using firefighters as reference group. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated using logistic regression on lifetime prevalence of hand eczema adjusted for potential confounders and mediators. P-values were calculated using likelihood ratio test against the crude OR. Results: A total of 186 participants answered the questionnaire: 74 chimney sweepers, 52 firefighters and 60 smelter workers. Participation rate was 95.0, 94.5 and 63.6%, respectively. Lifetime prevalence of hand eczema was 9.5, 9.6, and 28.3%, respectively. The point prevalence of hand eczema was 1.4, 1.9 and 10.0%, respectively. We estimated OR for lifetime hand eczema in smelter workers to 4.36 [95% CI: 1.31–14.43, p = 0.016] and for lifetime skin complaints in other locations to 2.25 [95% CI: 0.98–5.18, p = 0.058]. The lifetime prevalence of skin complaints at other locations was 18.9, 23.1 and 40.0%, respectively. The point prevalence was 14.9, 9.6 and 16.7%, respectively. These estimates were not statistically significant but indicates that smelter workers have more skin complaints also at other locations. Conclusion: This study reports a more than four-fold increased risk of hand eczema in smelter workers, and possibly a higher risk of skin complaints in other body locations, compared to the other occupations. Longitudinal studies with larger population are needed to verify the marked increased risk of eczema among smelters and establish causation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The growing popularity of nail techniques based on acrylates has led to a higher frequency of sensitization in both nail technicians and users. Objectives: The study aimed to assess cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by acrylates in individuals with occupational or non‐occupational exposure to nail techniques. Methods: A preliminary study was conducted on 30 patients with ACD caused by acrylates in nail techniques, who were patch tested from September 2022 to March 2023 at the First Department of Dermatology and Venereology of Andreas Syggros Hospital, Athens, Greece. Results: Thirty female patients with ACD to acrylates were documented (15 users and 15 nail technicians and users). The most common allergens were: 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA) and ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA), which tested positive in all 30 patients (100.0%). Twenty patients (66.7%) had been exposed to dental procedures involving acrylates, before the onset of ACD. Nail technicians exhibited extensive skin lesions, 40.0% experienced ACD within the first year of work and 13.3% during their professional practice. Three of them (20.0%) had to discontinue their work. Conclusion: Acrylates have been identified as potent allergens, necessitating the implementation of safety measures for the use of these chemicals in nail techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a serious health and socio-economic problem. Accurate and reliable assessment of exposure to ACD factors in the work environment would increase quality of life and work of employees. The aim of this study was to assess the level of exposure of workers of a multidisciplinary hospital to the factors causing ACD. Material and Methods: The proprietary OSDES-16 questionnaire was used. The effectiveness of the OSDES-16 was confirmed statistically. The study included 230 employees of the medical center in Polanica Zdrój, divided into groups. Results: The differences in the overall assessment of exposure between the individual groups in the OSDES-16 scale were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the current workplace and the level of exposure to ACD (p > 0.05). The level of exposure to ACD in the group of employees with work experience in the current position for more than 10 years was significantly higher than those working less than 6 years (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Nurses, midwives and paramedics are the occupational group most exposed to the development of contact allergy related to exposure to factors present in the work environment. The seniority of more than 10 years in the current position was linked with a higher level of occupational exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timely intervention reduces the risk of a poor prognosis in hand eczema, making early recognition of symptoms important in high-risk professions. However, limited data exist regarding the ability of cleaners and healthcare workers to recognize hand eczema. The aim of this study was to examine cleaners’ and healthcare workers’ ability to recognize hand eczema in clinical photographs and to assess the severity of the disease. Cleaners and healthcare workers completed a questionnaire consisting of 16 questions and participated in a structured interview referring to a validated photographic severity guide for chronic hand eczema, which comprised clinical photographs of hand eczema at varying levels of severity. Eighty cleaners and 201 healthcare workers (total N = 281) participated in the study. The rates of correctly identified hand eczema in clinical photographs (cleaners/ healthcare workers) were: 41.2%/57.7% (mild hand eczema), 81.2%/92.0% (moderate hand eczema), 85.0%/94.5% (severe hand eczema) and 82.5%/97.0% (very severe hand eczema). The proficiency of healthcare workers in recognizing hand eczema was significantly higher than that of cleaners. The results indicate that a large proportion of cleaners and healthcare workers fail to recognize mild hand eczema in clinical photographs. Healthcare workers had higher success rates in recognizing hand eczema in all severity categories. Symptom underestimation may lead to under-reporting of the true prevalence of hand eczema, with consequent loss of opportunities for prevention.

Medical adhesive tapes are commonly recommended for the prevention of friction blisters during hiking and military marches. The aim of this paper is to report on the results of investigations into an outbreak of tape-related foot dermatitis in 26 military conscripts following continuous use of medical adhesive tapes for several days during a field exercise. Patch tests were performed using baseline series and aimed testing was performed with colophonium-related substances and different medical adhesive tapes. Contact allergy to the adhesive tapes used was found in 20 (77%) subjects, and contact allergy to colophonium in 16 (61%). Chemical analysis detected colophonium-related substances in the culprit tapes. Compared with consecutive dermatitis patients investigated at our Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology in the previous 10 years, conscripts with colophonium allergy had increased odds ratios for concomitant contact allergy to phenol formaldehyde resins and fragrance substances including hydroperoxides of limonene and linalool. The results show that prolonged use of medical adhesive tapes on intact skin carries a high risk for allergic contact dermatitis. Prior to their introduction on the market, medical devices should be assessed for possible side-effects.

Background: The construction industry is a growing industry worldwide, including India, employing a large population. Construction workers perform a variety of work including mixing concrete and carrying heavy objects. Occupational contact dermatitis is a significant occupational dermatosis, cement being the most important agent and is an occupational hazard. Objective: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of occupational skin diseases among construction workers. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Manipal, Karnataka, among 300 construction workers. A detailed inquiry was made on demographic parameters such as age, sex, nature of work, duration of the job, chemicals exposed to, symptoms, and use of protective devices. They were examined to note the symptoms, clinical pattern, and distribution of lesions. Results: The majority of the workers belonged to the age group between 20 and 29 years. The common skin disorders noticed were callosities (17.33%), traumatic injuries (10%), dermatophyte infections (8.33%), and dermatitis (5.7%) along with few other dermatoses encountered due to increased exposure to heat and due to increased wet work in workers who did not wear protective devices. Conclusions: There is a lack of preemployment and periodic medical examinations for construction workers. Common dermatoses seen among the construction workers were mainly due to the lack of preventive measures. Hence, it is important to raise health awareness to recognize early signs and symptoms of various dermatoses and educate regarding the use of personal protective equipment.

Purpose of Review: Occupational hand dermatitis is a common work-related disorder of the skin. Prevention and management of this disease is critical to improving workers' quality of life and for occupation-specific retention. Recent Findings: This is a critical review of the current literature on occupational hand dermatitis. Occupational dermatitis continues to have a high prevalence among workers although the overall incidence may be slowly decreasing. Irritant contact dermatitis due to wet work exposure is the most common cause of occupational hand dermatitis. Healthcare workers, hairdressers, and metal workers are at particularly high risk for this disease. While some prevention programs have been ineffective in mitigating occupational hand dermatitis, other more resource-intensive initiatives may have benefit. Summary: Continued research is needed on ways to manage wet work exposures and on scalable, effective prevention programs for occupational hand dermatitis. The spectrum of culprit contact allergens continues to evolve, and vigilance for potential occupation-specific allergens remains important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant material that is frequently utilised in the construction industry is cement. Research indicates that they are restricted to occupational dermatitis. Among construction workers, it is one of the most frequently reported health issues. This is because cement contains heavy metals like nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), lead (Pb), and magnesium (Mg). The major goal of this study is to use microbes to reduce the toxicity of heavy metals in cement or concrete. The removal and/or recovery of hazardous metals from cement using current technologies is being challenged by the potential of biosorption. The utilisation of biosorption technology's ability to reduce the concentration of heavy metal ions to extremely low levels is one of its main benefits. Heavy metal concentration levels of heavy metals were determined by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Work related dermatitis is one of the most prevalent diseases, which its economic and social effects on the individual and the society is considerable. The Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2002) is known as a comprehensive and standardized tools for screening the occupational skin diseases.The main purpose of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the NOSQ-2002/SHORT into Persian.Materials and methods: A survey cultural translation carried out during 2018 in Mashhad, Iran. The NOSQ-2002/SHORT adaptation process included the forward translation and reconciliation, back translation and an expert panel assessment. The content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) were calculated according the to Lawshe formula. The Persian version of the questionnaire was tested in 30 workers attended the training courses for health ID card confirmation as a pilot study and were confirmed by physical examination. Base on the participants’ opinion, the ambiguous questions were modified by the expert panel. Results: All the 15 questions had a CVR of 0.6 and higher. The overall content validity index of the questionnaire was equal to 0.80. Some obscure words not good understood by the pilot study participants were revised. The results of the questionnaire declaration was matched with the physical examination for each worker.Conclusion: The Persian version of the NOSQ-2002/SHORT questionnaire is now available for researchers for assessment hand eczema in the work settings. Further research is suggested to evaluate the validity of the Persian version of NOSQ-2002.

Medical adhesive tapes are commonly recommended for the prevention of friction blisters during hiking and military marches. The aim of this paper is to report on the results of investigations into an outbreak of taperelated foot dermatitis in 26 military conscripts following continuous use of medical adhesive tapes for several days during a field exercise. Patch tests were performed using baseline series and aimed testing was performed with colophonium-related substances and different medical adhesive tapes. Contact allergy to the adhesive tapes used was found in 20 (77%) subjects, and contact allergy to colophonium in 16 (61%). Chemical analysis detected colophonium-related substances in the culprit tapes. Compared with consecutive dermatitis patients investigated at our Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology in the previous 10 years, conscripts with colophonium allergy had increased odds ratios for concomitant contact allergy to phenol formaldehyde resins and fragrance substances including hydroperoxides of limonene and linalool. The results show that prolonged use of medical adhesive tapes on intact skin carries a high risk for allergic contact dermatitis. Prior to their introduction on the market, medical devices should be assessed for possible side-effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The preventive measures of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) transmissions require the healthcare workers (HCWs) to be more cautious. Irritants or allergens exposure from these measures might induce adverse skin reactions and lead to the development of occupational contact dermatitis (OCD). Methods Questionnaires were distributed to HCWs in COVID-19 isolation ward of Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. The questionnaire consisted of personal and work characteristics, clinical history, skin complaints, and occupational exposures. Results Fifty-three completed questionnaires were gathered from eligible subjects. History of atopic dermatitis (AD) was found on 8 subject (15.09%). Many of the subjects had complained of dry skin (28.30%), itchy skin (26.41%), and redness of skin (20.75%) on the hands in the last 12 months. As many as 50.94% of the subjects washed their hands with water and soap at least 6-10 times a day and 49.06% used hand sanitizers 6-10 times a day. The use of PPE were mostly 4 hours a day or less. There were associations between history of AD with complaints related to hand dermatitis (p=0.004) and history of AD with incidence of OCD assessed with Mathias criteria (p=0.016). It was also found that the use of gloves for 2 or more hours a day was associated with skin complaints after gloves use (p=0.021) and the use of hand sanitizer for more than 10 times a day was associated with complaints related to hand dermatitis (p=0.041). Conclusion The repeated and prolonged exposure to irritative or allergenic substances contained in PPE and hand hygiene products is related to OCD, particularly hand dermatitis, among HCWs in COVID-19 isolation ward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a serious health and socio-economic problem. Accurate and reliable assessment of exposure to ACD factors in the work environment would increase quality of life and work of employees. The aim of this study was to assess the level of exposure of workers of a multidisciplinary hospital to the factors causing ACD. Material and Methods: The proprietary OSDES-16 questionnaire was used. The effectiveness of the OSDES-16 was confirmed statistically. The study included 230 employees of the medical center in Polanica Zdrój, divided into groups. Results: The differences in the overall assessment of exposure between the individual groups in the OSDES-16 scale were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the current workplace and the level of exposure to ACD (p > 0.05). The level of exposure to ACD in the group of employees with work experience in the current position for more than 10 years was significantly higher than those working less than 6 years (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Nurses, midwives and paramedics are the occupational group most exposed to the development of contact allergy related to exposure to factors present in the work environment. The seniority of more than 10 years in the current position was linked with a higher level of occupational exposure.

This article discusses a case of occupational contact dermatitis in a 44-year-old man who developed a recurrent facial rash after exposure to pyrethrum daisies (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) at his workplace. The man experienced symptoms for 2-4 weeks each summer, which improved but did not completely resolve after 2 months. Patch testing revealed positive reactions to the crop, as well as other substances. The patient was prescribed medication and provided with protective equipment to wear during exposure. The article emphasizes the importance of patch testing for specific allergens to which a patient may be exposed, rather than relying solely on commonly tested allergens. [Extracted from the article]

Duplilumab is approved to treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.  It is unclear, however, whether Dupilumab is effective for occupational hand eczema. In this article, we describe a 29-year-old nurse who developed severe hand eczema after working in a hospital for 6 years and received inadequate relief from routine treatment. Duplilumab was administered to the patient with great results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Work related dermatitis is one of the most prevalent diseases, which its economic and social effects on the employee and the society is remarkable. The Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire (NOSQ-2002) is known as a comprehensive and standardized tools for screening the occupational skin diseases. The main purpose of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the NOSQ-2002/ SHORT into Persian. Methods: A survey cultural translation carried out during 2018 in Mashhad, Iran. The NOSQ2002-/SHORT adaptation process consists of the forward translation and reconciliation, back translation and an expert panel assessment. The content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) were calculated according the to Lawshe formula. The Persian version of the questionnaire was tested in 30 workers attended the training courses for health ID card confirmation as a pilot study and were confirmed by physical examination. Base on the participants' opinion, the ambiguous questions were modified by the expert panel. Results: All the 15 questions had a CVR of 0.6 and higher. The overall content validity index of the questionnaire was equal to 0.80. Some obscure words not good understood by the pilot study participants were revised. The results of the questionnaire declaration was matched with the physical examination for each worker. Conclusion: The Persian version of the NOSQ2002-/SHORT questionnaire is now available for researchers for assessment hand eczema in the workplace. Further research is suggested to evaluate the validity of the Persian version of NOSQ2002. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes an initiative involving consultations with dermatology nurse specialists. The consultations were offered to healthcare workers with adverse skin reactions related to facial masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the project was to manage and reduce the number of facial skin reactions experienced by mask wearers. The objectives were to assess symptoms and uncover triggers; to educate the staff to understand the skin reactions better, and to provide information on management and prevention. Nearly half of the healthcare workers found that consultations helped prevent or manage their skin reaction, and a third were referred to a dermatologist. The recommendations provided for skin care included both general principles and individualised care plans or advice. It was anticipated this intervention would result in a reduction in the severity of the conditions and optimise appropriate access to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction:Occupational hand dermatitis is common among healthcare workers, with increased incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Irritant contact dermatitis accounts for the majority of occupational hand dermatitis and is largely due to frequent contact with hand hygiene products. Long-term prognosis of occupational contact dermatitis is often very poor. This study aims to identify and implement suitable workplace interventions to aid in the recovery of occupational irritant hand dermatitis among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsA quality improvement (QI) project was performed in a tertiary hospital using the Plan-Do-Study-Act model. Healthcare workers seen at the Occupational Dermatology Clinic from March 2020 to May 2021 for the first time for likely occupational irritant dermatitis were targeted for the project. Four workplace interventions were implemented: (a) substitute current alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) with a different, gentler ABHR, (b) alternate ABHR with gentle hand wash products, (c) temporary job modification with less clinical work (d) switch latex gloves to nitrile gloves. The improvement was assessed after 2 months of workplace intervention using a visual analogue scale, based on changes seen on photographs taken at the baseline and monthly review. The target improvement was set at 70% after 2 months of workplace interventions.ResultsA total of 21 participants were included in the QI project. All participants were found to have significant improvement in their hand condition. The estimated mean reduction of signs and symptoms was 80% in comparison to their baseline hand condition before intervention.ConclusionWorkplace interventions such as substituting irritant hand hygiene products with gentler alternatives and temporary reduction in clinical duties may be useful in improving the recovery rate of irritant hand dermatitis among healthcare workers. Areas with high hand hygiene workload or high incidences of hand dermatitis may opt to implement systemic workplace changes.

Background: Health care workers (HCWs) report frequent adverse skin reactions (ASRs) due to face personal protective equipment (F‐PPE) use during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Objectives: To describe self‐reported ASRs among HCWs using F‐PPE; investigate background factors, such as chronic skin diseases and skin types (dry, oily, combination, sensitive), and determine whether HCWs took preventive methods against ASRs. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to 22 993 HCWs at hospitals. Results: The prevalence of ASRs was 61.9% based on 10 287 responders. Different types of F‐PPE caused different reactions. The most common ASRs from surgical masks were spots and pimples (37.2%) and from FFP3 masks was red and irritated skin (27.3%). A significantly higher proportion of HCWs with chronic skin diseases had ASRs (71.6%) than those without chronic skin diseases (59.7%) (P <.001). Some skin types were more prone to ASRs (sensitive skin [78.8%] vs dry skin [54.3%]; P =.001). HCWs using F‐PPE for >6 hours versus <3 hours per day had a four times higher ASR risk (P = <.001). Nearly all HCWs used preventive and/or counteractive methods (94.2%). Conclusions: It is important to consider background factors, such as chronic skin diseases and skin types, to prevent and counteract ASRs due to F‐PPE use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Painters and varnishers ("painters") are exposed to various contact allergens and skin irritants, and therefore, are at risk for developing occupational dermatitis (OD). Objective: To describe the spectrum of occupational sensitizations in painters and revise the corresponding current patch test recommendations. Patients and Methods: Retrospective analysis of Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK) data from 2000 to 2019 with focus on male painters with OD, ages 20‐59 years (n = 557) in comparison to age‐matched male painters without OD (n = 422) and male OD patients who have had never worked as painters (n = 13 862). Results: Male painters with OD have a significantly higher rate of allergic contact dermatitis and face dermatitis than male patients with OD who work in other professions. Positive patch tests to epoxy resin, methylisothiazolinone (MI), and methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)/MI were significantly more frequent in painters with OD than in the other groups. Epoxy resin sensitization was significantly associated with face dermatitis. Conclusions: Epoxy resin, MI, and MCI/MI represent the most important occupational sensitizers in painters. In addition to baseline, resins and glues, and industrial biocides series, the patients' own workplace materials should be tested in painters with suspected OD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to enhanced hygiene procedures and use of personal protective equipment, but also to increased attention to occupational skin disease in healthcare workers. The occurrence of hand and facial skin disease in > 5,000 Swedish healthcare workers was investigated in a questionnaire survey. Levels of skin exposure related to hygiene procedures and personal protective equipment were recorded. Caring for patients with COVID-19 entailed higher levels of wet work and face mask exposures, and was associated with higher 1-year prevalence of both hand eczema (36%) and facial skin disease (32%) compared with not being directly engaged in COVID-19 care (28% and 22%, respectively). Acne and eczema were the most common facial skin diseases; for both, a dosedependent association with face mask use was found. Dose-dependent associations could be shown between hand eczema and exposure to soap and gloves, but not to alcohol-based hand disinfectants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevention of allergic contact dermatitis hinges on maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and responding appropriately when it is disturbed. Although intact skin is subject to sensitization via highly irritating allergens, such as poison ivy, acutely inflamed and chronically inflamed skin is subject to sensitization to allergens without inherent irritant potential. In the chronically inflamed state of atopic dermatitis, sensitization to proteins, such as food, also carries a risk for systemic contact dermatitis via ingestion of the allergen. Minimizing the development of irritant dermatitis is key to preventing sensitization. However, in patients with already chronically inflamed skin, reducing the use of products to the involved areas, recommending hypoallergenic products with caution, and taking measures to prevent biofilm formation are also integral to preventing sensitization to chemicals and proteins, such as food and commensal organisms.

Contact dermatitis is a major problem in the healthcare environment and in other sectors. Healthcare professionals may be exposed to a large number of chemical agents, including the accelerators for rubber vulcanization process. The prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis among operators in the sector ranges 13–30%. This paper describes the case of a 46-year-old male cardiac surgeon affected by a severe skin reaction localized on the face in the absence of hand dermatitis, presumably resulting from the use of a surgical patch applied to the face. Patch tests were performed and the result was negative for latex and positive (+++) for thiuram mix. A thiuram-free tape was prescribed and the operator’s dermatitis improved significantly. Thus, it would be very important to pay attention to skin disorders in health workers and thiuram as an occupational allergen. Med Pr. 2019;70(1):121–4

Background: Prolonged wear of facial protective equipment can lead to occupational dermatoses.Objective: To identify important causes of occupational dermatoses from facial protective equipment.Methods: A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was performed using PubMed and Embase databases. Articles were included if they reported occupational dermatoses caused by surgical/procedure masks or N95 respirators, or both.Results: We identified 344 articles, and 16 were suitable for inclusion in this review. Selected articles focused on facial occupational dermatoses in health care workers. Allergic contact dermatitis to the elastic straps, glue, and formaldehyde released from the mask fabric was reported. Irritant contact dermatitis was common on the cheeks and nasal bridge due to pressure and friction. Irritant dermatitis was associated with personal history of atopic dermatitis and prolonged mask wear (>6 hours). Acneiform eruption was reported due to prolonged wear and occlusion. Contact urticaria was rare.Limitations: Only publications listed in PubMed or Embase were included. Most publications were case reports and retrospective studies.Conclusion: This systematic review from members of the American Contact Dermatitis Society highlights cases of occupational dermatitis to facial protective equipment, including potential offending allergens. This work may help in the diagnosis and treatment of health care workers with facial occupational dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metalworkers are exposed to a variety of contact allergens by handling tools, metals, metalworking fluids (MWFs), oils and greases, rubber materials, and so on. Most large‐scale reports on contact allergy due to MWFs are more than 10‐years‐old, and there are only few studies on contact allergy in mechanics and other metal workers not exposed to MWFs. Objectives: To describe a current spectrum of contact sensitization in metalworkers with occupational dermatitis (OD). Patients and Methods: Retrospective analysis of patch test data collected by the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK; 2010–2018), stratifying for 804 cutting metalworkers, 2197 mechanics, and 355 other metalworkers. Results: Cutting metalworkers were most frequently sensitized to monoethanolamine (12.6%), colophonium/abietic acid (11.4%) and formaldehyde releasers (up to 8.5%) from the MWF series, and formaldehyde (4.6%) and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (4.6%) from the baseline series. Sensitization among mechanics and other metalworkers indicates possible occupational exposure to MWFs, glues, and resins, although this may not be expected from their job titles. Conclusions: The spectrum of MWF contact allergens remained largely unchanged during the last years. Taking a comprehensive occupational history is indispensable in order to not miss relevant allergen exposures. Highlights: There have been largely no significant changes in the spectrum of contact sensitizations in cutting metalworkers with occupational dermatitis (OD); leading allergens are monoethanolamine, resin acids, formaldehyde (releasers), and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate.Mechanics and other metalworkers may be occupationally exposed to metalworking fluids, glues, and resins, although this may not be expected from their job titles.Two formaldehyde releasers—Bioban P1487 and Bioban CS 1135—are outdated, and should no longer be patch tested in a metalworking fluid series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Studies on patch testing with workplace materials and evaluation of current occupational relevance of positive patch test reactions are scarce in patients with occupational dermatitis (OD). Objectives: To identify frequent sensitizations with occupational relevance and to determine the value of patch testing with workplace materials in OD patients. Patients and Methods: Results and clinical data of 654 patients with suspected OD patch tested between 2013 and 2017 were analysed. Results: Occupational allergic contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 113 (17.3%) patients. Mechanics had the widest range of occupational sensitizations. Sensitization to epoxy resin was rated occupationally relevant in almost all handicraft trades. Among positive patch test reactions to workplace products, those to water‐based metal working fluids and leave‐on cosmetic products were most frequent. Despite frequent testing, protective gloves only rarely elicited positive reactions. Preservatives and rubber compounds were most frequently identified as currently occupationally relevant. Conclusions: Rubber allergy is occupationally relevant especially in healthcare workers and cleaners. Generally, preservatives including formaldehyde releasers are important allergens in OD patients. Leave‐on cosmetic products must not be forgotten as allergen sources. Patch testing both workplace materials and standardized test preparations has a complementary value and is beneficial for the diagnostic work‐up of OD patients. Highlights: Patch testing of workplace materials and standardized test preparations has a complementary value in the diagnostic work‐up of occupational dermatitis patients.Mechanics should be patch tested in a broad fashion, including rubber, metal working fluids, epoxy resin systems, and leave‐on products.Epoxy resin systems exhibit current occupational relevance in almost all high‐risk professions of the handicraft sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Women's work has traditionally been considered less hazardous to health in comparison with men's work. The increased women's participation in the workforce has led to an increased attention to women's working conditions. Women and men are unequally represented in individual professions or sectors (horizontal segregation), with women also under‐represented in leadership positions (vertical segregation). The selection of specific occupations can result in differences between types and levels of occupational exposures among women and men and can affect prevalence of occupational allergy. Gender distribution of work‐related asthma appears to vary across countries without clear global difference. Occupational rhinitis tends to be higher in women, although is not clear if this is related to a sex/gender effect or to differences in work exposure. Women are more likely to have occupational contact dermatitis, mainly due to wet work. No clear effects of gender on rates of hypersensitivity pneumonitis have been shown. Besides variation in exposures, physical and physiological characteristics, different behaviours and health consciousness have an impact on the occupational health hazards of women and men. Occupational allergy health promotion strategies need to consider approaches for women and men adjusted by gender, and legislative actions similarly could be implemented in a more gender‐sensitive way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sensitization to methylisothiazolinone (MI) has seen an exceptional epidemic, mainly attributed to its use in cosmetics. Objectives: To trace the epidemic of MI allergy (2009–2018), and to analyze a possible change of patients' characteristics. Methods: Informationsverbund Dermatologischer Kliniken‐data of patients patch tested between 2009 and 2018 with MI (0.05% aq.) were analyzed concerning anamnestic items and sensitization frequencies. Results: Overall, 4.9% reacted positive to MI. Comparing sensitization to MI in three periods (2009, 2013/14, and 2017/18), there was an increase to 7% in 2013 and a decrease to 3.4% in 2018. The MOAHLFA Index (M=Men, O=Occupational Dermatitis, A=Atopic Dermatitis, L=Leg Dermatitis, F=Face Dermatitis, A= Age > 40) for the period 2013/14 is characterized by a lower proportion of occupational dermatitis and a higher proportion of face dermatitis. The period 2017/18 is characterized by increases of occupational dermatitis and hand dermatitis, and a decrease of face dermatitis. Painters, personal care workers, and hairdressers were particularly affected. Sensitization in hairdressers and personal care workers (mostly cosmeticians) decreased after the peak in 2013/14, whereas sensitization to MI in painters continued to increase. Conclusions: After an unprecedented epidemic of MI allergy, mainly caused by its use in cosmetics, the continuous use of MI in industrial applications, for example, paints, and subsequent sensitization remain a matter of concern. Highlights: After an epidemic of MI allergy mainly caused by its use in cosmetics, the continuous use of MI in industrial applications, for example, paints, and subsequent sensitization remain a matter of concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]