Impact of atopic dermatitis on occupational contact dermatitis among young people: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND: Occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) is a common occupational disease. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a known risk factor for OCD.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of previously diagnosed AD among young workers with recognized OCD and assess its impact on OCD prognosis.

METHODS: A retrospective cohort study. A questionnaire was sent to 6251 workers with recognized OCD who were under 35 years at notification (response rate: 47%). Of the respondents, 2392 answered a question about previous doctor-diagnosed AD and were included in the study. Eczema severity, occupational consequences and quality of life were examined using statistical analyses comparing workers with and without previously diagnosed AD.

RESULTS: The prevalence of previously diagnosed AD was 41.8% (95% CI: 39.8-43.8). Women had a higher AD prevalence, and workers with AD reported OCD at a younger age. Workers with AD reported more frequent and severe eczema symptoms and had a higher risk of OCD negatively affecting job and occupation choices. Health-related quality of life was more adversely affected in workers with AD.

CONCLUSIONS: AD significantly impacts severity and has long-term consequences for young people with OCD. Targeted prevention strategies need to be developed.