Skin disorders - glossary
Occupational skin disease
A skin disorder wholly or partially caused by a person's work activity
Acne
A condition caused by a blockage and inflammation of the glands in the skin, resulting in a flushing and redness of the skin, spots or lumps
Allergen/sensitiser
A substance that can provoke an allergic reaction
Atopy
A genetic tendency to develop allergic disease, for example dermatitis, rhinitis or asthma. An atopic person is hypersensitive to substances, usually proteins, in their environment
BSIF
British Safety Industry Federation
Contact dermatitis or eczema
Inflammation of the skin which is caused by direct contact with an irritating substance or allergen. Its characterised by redness, dryness and itching, and, in severe cases, by cracking, blistering, flaking and bleeding. Dermatitis and eczema are often used synonymously
Contact urticaria
An allergic skin reaction on the skin, characterised by redness, swellings and intense itching
Dermatologist
A medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders
Dermatology
A branch of medicine that deals with skin diseases and disorders
Emollients
Creams that soften, soothe and moisturise the skin
Folliculitis
An inflammation of the hair follicles due to an infection or irritation
HSE
Health and Safety Executive
Occupational health nurse
Occupational health nursing is a nursing specialism which covers health and well-being in the workplace
Occupational medicine
The medical specialty which covers the multi-faceted relationship between health and work.
Occupational physician
An occupational physician is a doctor with specialist training and qualifications in occupational medicine.
Patch testing
A method used to investigate people with suspected allergic contact dermatitis. Sticky patches containing various suspected allergens are placed on the persons back. If theyre allergic to a particular substance, theyll have a reaction within 48 to 96 hours
THOR
The Health and Occupation Reporting Network
Wet work
Work which causes the skin to come into contact with water, or which involves wearing impervious protective gloves over a long period of time, causing the hand to become moist from perspiration.
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