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Occupational Dermatosis

  • Allergic Skin Diseases (L Fonacier and A Wollenberg Section Editors)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to provide an update on occupational contact dermatitis including gaps in knowledge and practice. Occupational contact dermatitis is the most common occupational skin disease.

Recent Findings

New sources of exposure for known allergens and new allergens are continually being reported. Through clinical databases and surveillance systems, effects of prevention efforts or introduction of new allergens or new uses of known allergens can be monitored. Though the diagnostic process is clear, there are delays in workers seeking care. As early detection and intervention improves outcomes, screening should be implemented. Gaps in primary prevention in the workplace are identified and should be addressed to reduce the burden of disease.

Summary

Surveillance systems support the prevention mandate. Understanding limitations of our knowledge and identifying gaps in practice can lead to initiatives to address research and practice needs and improve prevention of occupational dermatoses.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dalla Lana School of Public Health and Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada

    Dorothy Linn Holness

  2. Division of Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, St Michael’s Hospital, 30 Bond St., Toronto, ON, M5B 1W8, Canada

    Dorothy Linn Holness

  3. MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St Michael’s Hospital, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Toronto, Canada

    Dorothy Linn Holness

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Holness, D.L. Occupational Dermatosis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 19, 42 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-019-0870-6

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