Occupational Dermatoses …a discussion of the nature and extent of skin diseases related to occupational exposure

Extent of the Problem The skin is the largest organ, first exposed, and vulnerable to attack. Dermatological conditions are the 2nd most common cause of all occupational diseases. Decline in past 20 years due to automation, enclosure, education Lack of control is costly.

Layers of the Skin Epidermis Dermis Subcutaneous Layer

Functions of the Healthy Skin Physical protection Water barrier Temperature control Sensory reception Excretion UV protection Other general protective measures

Predisposing Factors Determining Skin Response Type of skin Age Gender Perspiration rate Previous skin diseases Allergies Personal hygiene

A square centimeter of skin contains... 2,000,000 cells A yard of blood vessels 3000 sensory cells 200 nerve endings (pain) 2 sensory apparatuses heat/cold 100 sweat/15 sebaceous glands 10 hair follicles

Definitions Dermatosis - Any cutaneous abnormality. It encompasses folliculitis, acne, pigmentary changes, nodules, tumors, eczema Occupational dermatoses – resulting or aggravated from work environment Dermatitis – Inflammation of the skin from any cause (becomes itchy, may develop blisters, etc.)

Causes of Occupational Skin Diseases Mechanical Physical Biological Chemical Botanical

Most Hazardous Industries/Processes Use of cutting oils and coolants in machine tool operations Plastics manufacturing Rubber manufacturing Food processing Leather tanning and refinishing Agriculture Metal plating and cleaning Construction Printing Forest products manufacturing

Chemically-Induced Dermatitis Primary irritants Sensitizers Photosensitizers

Chemicals Causing Dermatoses Acids Alkalis Metals/salts Solvents Dyes Insecticides Coolants and lubricants Others