D3.251 - Prevention of Irritant Contact Dermatitis Among Dental Students

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) is common among dentists. These skin disorders often begin during the early years of study and practical training. Most published studies have focused on reactions to latex gloves, frequently overlooking other chemical agents with irritant potential.

Objectives:To determine the prevalence of irritant contact dermatitis among dental students and to identify associated risk factors.

This was a cross-sectional  study conducted among students at the Faculty of Dental Medicine in Monastir between February and June 2023. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic, academic, and medical information, as well as preventive measures employed

Among the participants, 24 (7.73%) were diagnosed with irritant contact dermatitis. The median duration of disease evolution was 3 years [IQR: 2–5], ranging from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 10 years. The most commonly affected site was the hands, reported in 18 participants (75%). In our population, 94 participants (30.3%) currently reported dermatological lesions following contact with the aforementioned substances. The most frequent functional symptoms were pruritus in 37 cases (39.4%), burning sensation in 26 cases (27.7%), and pain in 10 cases (10.6%). Lesions were primarily located on the hands in 87 cases (92.6%) and on the face in 14 cases (14.9%). Participants mainly reported dry skin in 61 cases (64.9%), erythema in 60 cases (63.8%), pruritic erythema with papules in 15 cases (16%), and pruritic erythema with vesicles in 13 cases (13.8%). These lesions resolved on rest days in 66 cases. In our population, 37 participants (11.9%) reported wearing protective goggles. The majority of respondents reported always wearing masks (43.8%). Emollients were applied to the hands by 47 participants (15.2%). According to our findings, 32 participants (10.3%) had received training during their dental studies on the prevention of contact dermatitis related to occupational exposures, while 278 participants (89.7%) had not received such training

Irritant contact dermatitis is common among dental students and often begins early during practical training. Awareness of risk factors and the implementation of preventive measures, such as protective equipment and skin care, are essential to reduce its occurrence.