Occupational Contact Dermatitis Caused by Methylisothiazolinone: A Hidden Culprit in the Workplace

Abstract

Occupational contact dermatitis is a diagnosis of a disease caused by exposure to allergens and/or irritants in working processes. Skin lesions improve during days off but worsen when returning to work. We report a case of a female patient with erythematous papules and deep-seated vesicles on  the erythematous base with swelling on both hands. Based on data obtained from her occupational history and a walk-through survey of the automotive and motorcycle engine factory where she worked, she was exposed to various chemical agents while wearing nitrile gloves, toluene and hand sanitizers, which can also trigger contact dermatitis. Initially, she had skin lesions on both hands after a week of working on a production line. Her lesions improved during days off, however the skin problem persisted after she changed her work position. Patch test results correlated with exposure to hand sanitizers containing methylisothiazolinone. The final diagnosis was occupational allergic contact dermatitis. In conclusion to diagnose occupational contact dermatitis, it appears necessary to conduct a walk-through survey and refer patients for patch testing.