A review of allergic contact dermatitis for dental professionals

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin disorder that can present as an acute, subacute or chronic condition. This review highlights the burden of allergic contact dermatitis for dental professionals as well as discussing its cellular mechanism, clinical features, common causative agents in dentistry and treatment options. FINDINGS There are two main types of contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis accounts for 20% of reported contact dermatitis cases while the remainder are due to irritant contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is a type IV hypersensitivity reaction that affects 22-43% of dental professionals globally. There is limited literature on the impact of this condition on dental healthcare professionals. Moreover, with the increased and prolonged use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent occupational transmission of SARS-CoV-2, more healthcare professionals are presenting with allergic contact dermatitis against their PPE. CONCLUSIONS Allergic contact dermatitis is a prevalent occupational skin condition that can affect all members of the dental team, especially with the increased use of PPE due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dental professionals with signs and symptoms should seek relevant advice and reduce exposure to known allergens.