Pitfalls in occupational dermatology

Abstract

Occupational dermatology has become avibrant and interesting specialty, particularly in recent years. This includes more than hand eczema (HE). The increasing prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) has led to an increase of atopic hand eczema which can be worsened in certain occupations. New systemic therapies have improved the range of treatments for HE. The current guideline on hand eczema includes avariety of topical and systemic therapies. Nevertheless, in daily occupational dermatological practice, there are still chronic cases, especially vesicular hand eczema. They can often not be assigned to aclear cause, which is often aproblem for those who are affected. In addition, co-factors such as chronic infectious comorbidities and psychological factors/illnesses must be considered. We present challenges in occupational dermatology by reporting special cases.