Are there any risk factors for the development of an OSD?

Various investigators have found a personal history of atopic dermatitis to be a significant risk factor. Other preexisting skin diseases with compromised epidermal barriers, such as xerosis or nummular eczema, can predispose a person to contact dermatitis because of enhanced absorption of irritants and allergens through the skin. Poor personal hygiene plays a role in patients who neglect to wash off irritating and sensitizing chemicals, thereby prolonging contact time. However, overwashing is actually the more common problem. The use of harsh soaps and frequent wetting/drying cycles induce chapping and desiccation, which compromises the skin barrier. Environmental factors are also important. If it is hot and humid, workers may perspire, which can solubilize particulate matter, enhancing its penetration into the skin. Sweat can also leach out allergens, such as chromates from leather shoes, inducing an allergic contact dermatitis. Conversely, low temperature and humidity causes chapping of the skin, which can lead to irritant contact dermatitis. Certain jobs also are more likely to be associated with OSD, such as nursing and health care aides.

Belsito D: Occupational contact dermatitis: etiology, prevalence, and resultant impairment/disability, J Am Acad Dermatol 53:303–313, 2005.

Rietschel RL, Mathias CG, Fowler JF Jr, et al: A preliminary report of the occupation of patients evaluated in patch test clinics, Am J Contact Dermat 12:72–76, 2001.