Dermatite allergica professionale: il ruolo del medico competente nella prevenzione

Occupational contact dermatitis are the second occupational diseases in industrialized countries and the preventive action and/or early diagnosis done by occupational physician (OP) is of paramount importance. OP in the process of risk evaluation must suggest products, detergents and personal protective equipment with low irritant or sensitization potential. During work, the use of skin creams has to be promoted to prevent irritation that is the first step towards impairment of the skin barrier and sensitization. During periodical medical surveillance OP can control skin conditions of workers looking for signs of irritant and contact dermatitis, can give advice about preventive measures and information about products used to permit an early and correct diagnosis. At the retour to work workers with a diagnosis of occupational dermatitis must avoid direct contact with irritant and sensitizing products.