Current features of allergic occupational dermatoses

<< Allergic occupational dermatoses >> is a constantly evolving topical subject. Several new clinical aspects have been described over recent years, but this article is particularly concerned with current allergens, although they cannot all be described in detail. The ever-increasing importance of plastics (epoxide, acrylic resins, etc.) is emphasized. Cases of contact cutaneous sensitisation to acrylates in dentists (dental technicians) and printers (offset, serigraphy) are increasingly frequent and are likely to become even more frequent in the future. Although the ingredients of vulcanisation of rubber continue to induce allergic contact eczema, latex (natural rubber) has become a << star >> allergen (type I and type IV sensitisations are possible). Proteins other than those of latex can also constitute allergens (for example: alpha-amylase in bakers). Apart from sensitizing metals, which have been known for a long time, such as nickel, chromium, etc., palladium and gold have also benn reported in the literature over recent years. Several examples of current forms of allergic dermatitis due to detergents or disinfectants are presented. Isothiazolinones constitute << fashionable >> allergens among preservatives. The role of Euxyl K400 and sulphites must also be taken into account. Glycerol monothioglycolate (acid permanents) and PPD and its derivatives (hair colours) are very important allergens in hairdressers. New forms of contact allergic dermatitis to drugs have been described among nursing staff. Several occupational cutaneous contact allergies to plants (sesquiterpenic lactones), tropical woods and pesticides have been reported. Preventive and legal medical aspects are not discussed in this article.