Occupationally related hand dermatitis has been attributed to frequent hand-washing, exposure to possible sensitizers and latex glove use. The authors conducted a study to determine the prevalence of occupationally related hand dermatitis in dental personnel. They found that 75 (19.2 percent) of 390 subjects self-reported they had a positive history of hand dermatitis. Further testing of 53 of these subjects indicated that only 9.4 percent reacted to the 45 allergens tested, and 3.8 percent had an allergy to latex.

Occupationally related hand dermatitis is prevalent in dental workers, with 19.2% self-reported having it, and only 9.4% tested positive for allergens and 3.8 percent having latex allergy.

Prevalence of occupationally related hand dermatitis in dental workers.

Key Takeaway: Occupationally related hand dermatitis is prevalent in dental workers, with 19.2% self-reported having it, and only 9.4% tested positive for allergens and 3.8 percent having latex allergy.