Potassium Dichromate-Induced Occupational Contact Dermatitis
Smaranda R. Goţia1, Persa Ghiţulescu2, Virgil Feier2, and Ildikó A. Koreck2
1 Department of Physiology and
2 Department of Dermatology, Victor Babeş University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timişoara, Romania
Corresponding author: Smaranda Rodica Goţia
Splaiul T. Vladimirescu nr. 14
RO-1900 Timişoara, Romania
Telephone: + 40 256 190507
Fax number: + 40 256 190507
E-mail address: lauragotia@yahoo.com
CEJOEM 2002, Vol.8. No.2–3.:99–103
Key words:
Potassium dichromate, contact dermatitis, patch test
Abstract:
In this study, of 487 patients with positive tests to various allergens 221 patients (45.48%)
had positive patch test to 0.5% potassium dichromate. The chromium-induced allergic contact
dermatitis had various occupational origins: detergents (32.12% ), cement (19%), chrome tanned
leather (shoe dermatitis – 14.93%, tanning – 11.76%), textile industry (7.29%), metal cleaning
(6.76%), lithography (5.58%), photography (1.36%), and others (1.17%). In the same patient, the
persistence of chrome dermatitis can be the result of various sources of sensitization. In the
present study, synergy of detergent-induced effects and photosensitivity was found in cement
workers. Sensitization to chrome has important bearing in dermatological and socioprofessional
pathology. Exploration of the environmental sources of chromium, technological improvement of
cement manufacturing, use of protective cloths, adequate ventilation, and periodic medical
examinations are relevant means to prevent chrome dermatitis.
Received: 3 July 2002
Accepted: 1 November 2002
| Back |