D2.252 - Occupational Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Impact on Work Productivity and Professional Activity

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is the leading cause of occupational dermatoses. Its progression toward chronicity results not only in physical and psychological impairment but also in a substantial socio-professional burden. Therefore, evaluating its impact on work is an essential component of disease management.

This study aims to assess the impact of occupational allergic contact dermatitis (OACD) on work productivity and professional activity.

A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted including all cases of occupational ACD managed at the Occupational Dermatology and Allergology Unit of Farhat Hached University Hospital in Sousse over a two-year period. The impact of OACD on work productivity and daily activities was evaluated using the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire.

A total of 150 cases of occupational ACD were included. The mean age was 38.9 ± 10.8 years. The most affected sectors were construction (15.3%), textiles (14%), and healthcare (12.7%). During the seven days preceding the assessment, the mean work productivity loss was 29.6% ± 19.5%, while impairment in usual daily activities reached 50.4% ± 32.3%. Absenteeism averaged 25.9% ± 15.3% and was significantly associated with age (p = 0.039), extent of skin lesions (p = 0.037), occupational sector (p < 10⁻³), presenteeism (p = 0.001), reduced productivity (p < 10⁻³), and impairment in daily activities (p = 0.001). Presenteeism was estimated at 50.3% ± 32.0% and was significantly associated with female gender (p = 0.05), the presence of more than two positive patch test allergens (p = 0.045), occupational sector (p = 0.006), reduced productivity (p < 10⁻³), and impairment in daily activities (p < 10⁻³). Patients who lost their jobs due to OACD and those who experienced a subsequent reduction in income exhibited the lowest levels of presenteeism (p = 0.02).

Occupational allergic contact dermatitis has a considerable negative impact on work productivity and professional activity. These findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis, effective therapeutic management, and the implementation of appropriate preventive measures in the workplace.