Occupational dermatitis, mainly
allergic contact dermatitis and skin irritations are increasing because of new
allergens and diversity of the industrial procedures. In Senegal occupational
contact dermatitis are currently observed and they are not declared at our social security institution. The aim of our trial was to determinate the frequency of occupational
allergic contact dermatitis, the
allergens responsible and the exposed occupations. We included in a one year lasting prospective trial, all patients with occupational
contact dermatitis confirmed by positive cutaneous allergological tests. Among 201 cases of
contact dermatitis, 27 (12,91%) were included and predominant occupational sectors were building, mechanics, health, cleaning and trade. Main responsible
allergens were dichromate of
potassium (7), N-isopropyl N-phenylparaphenylenediamine (3), fragrance mix (3),
thiuram mix (3), colophane (3),
formaldehyde (2),
nickel sulphate (2),
Chalk (2). Building sector was the most frequent source because of high use of dichromate of
potassium in cement and
formaldehyde in painting-glue. In mechanics, N-isopropyl N-phenylparaphenylenediamine is present in rubbers and fragrance mix in
oils.
Occupational dermatitis in health workers are due to presence of
thiuram mix in the gloves, and dichromate of
potassium found in
antiseptics. To decrease the incidence of occupational
contact dermatitis in our country, we have to promote prevention among workers by using individual protective outfits and increasing workers medical survey and information about risks and means of prevention.