Occupational dermatoses in cheese makers: frequent association of irritant, allergic and protein contact dermatitis.
BACKGROUND
Few data are available on occupational dermatoses in cheese makers.


OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the present study was to investigate occupationally related skin diseases in cheese makers.


METHODS
In a retrospective study we analyzed 400 patients with occupational dermatoses which presented for expert opinion evaluation at our institution (1990-1995).


RESULTS
Four patients with hand eczema acquired in cheese dairies were identified. All patients had a decreased alkali resistance. Atopy was a further risk factor in 2 patients. Three out of 4 patients were patch test positive for occupationally related substances and demonstrated also immediate skin test reactions to various milk products. Therefore, these patients had concurrent allergic contact and protein contact dermatitis.


CONCLUSIONS
The diagnosis of concurrent allergic and protein contact dermatitis has to be considered in occupational dermatoses related to cheese making.
Nestle
F O
FO
Department of Dermatology, University of Zurich Medical School, Switzerland. nestle@derm.unizh.ch
Elsner
P
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000818:Animals; D002424:Caustics / Q000009:adverse effects; D002611:Cheese / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003611:Dairy Products / Q000009:adverse effects; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000150:complications; D017453:Dermatitis, Irritant / Q000209:etiology*; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000209:etiology*; D004485:Eczema / Q000209:etiology; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008892:Milk / Q000009:adverse effects; D008894:Milk Proteins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010328:Patch Tests; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide / Q000009:adverse effects
D002424:Caustics; D008894:Milk Proteins; D012972:Sodium Hydroxide