Airborne contact dermatitis

Abstract

Occupational airborne irritant (frictional and/or chemical) contact dermatitis is due to fibers, dust particles, vapors, and/or gasses. Occupational airborne allergic contact dermatitis is a common problem, provoked by a large variety of allergens. Occupational airborne phototoxic and/or photoallergic contact dermatitis is a rare but well-documented event. Occupational airborne immunological contact urticaria can be caused by several chemicals and/or proteins. Allergy to latex proteins was the main problem, but it is declining at the present time. There is a vast range of procedures available to reach a proper etiological diagnosis of airborne contact dermatitis. Prevention and treatment of airborne contact dermatitis deserve special attention and must be adapted to each individual situation. “Extrinsic” atopic dermatitis (face and neck dermatitis) is related to the penetration into the skin of aeroallergens, particularly dust mite.