D3.238 - Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Formaldehyde: A 31-Year Experience in a Dermato-Allergology Consultation

Formaldehyde is extensively utilized across various occupational sectors and incorporated into numerous consumer products. It functions as a disinfectant, fixative, and preservative in construction materials, furniture, plastics, and do-it-yourself products. Exposure to formaldehyde has been consistently associated with the development of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). the aim of this study is to describe the sociodemographic, occupational, and clinical characteristics of cases of ACD to formaldehyde.

This was a retrospective descriptive study including patients who consulted the dermato-allergology unit of the Occupational Medicine Department at Farhat Hached University Hospital in Sousse for eczema investigation by patch testing during 31 years.

Among 2309 patients tested, 76 cases of ACD to formaldehyde were identified. The mean age was 43.2 ± 11.5 years, with a slight female predominance (sex ratio 0.92). One patient had a personal history of atopic eczema, and 21.3% reported a family history of allergy.

Patients were mainly employed in the construction, textile, and healthcare sectors (each 10.5%), with a mean occupational tenure of 14 years. The hands (52.7%) and feet (44.7%) were the most frequently affected sites. Clinically, lesions were predominantly erythematovesicular (59.7%) or erythematosquamous (38.9%).

An occupational origin was identified in 34.7% of cases, while formaldehyde-induced eczema was linked to clothing in four patients and to cosmetics in three ones.

Formaldehyde is a common occupational allergen, primarily affecting the hands and feet. Reducing exposure and implementing preventive measures are essential to decrease the risk of ACD.