Occupational allergic contact dermatitis is more prevalent than irritant contact dermatitis: A 5-year study

Abstract

Background: Irritant contact dermatitis is thought to be the leading cause of occupational skin disease in the United States. Recent reports suggest otherwise. Objectives: The purposes of this study were to determine the prevalence of allergic and irritant forms of occupational contact dermatitis in the population seen at a Midwestern dermatologic referral clinic, report professions commonly affected by occupational skin disease, and indicate which substances are frequent allergens. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patch test data collected at the University of Kansas between 1994 and 1999 was performed. Results: Of 537 patients who underwent patch testing, 135 (25%) had occupational skin disease. Allergic contact dermatitis affected 81 (60%) patients, and irritant contact dermatitis was found in 46 (34%). Health care professionals, machinists, and construction workers accounted for nearly half of all patients with occupational skin disease. Nickel sulfate, glutaraldehyde, and thiuram mix were the most common allergens. Conclusion: Patch tests with a wider array of allergens than those currently available in the United States are needed to prevent misdiagnosis of occupational contact dermatitis. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2002;46:698-9.)