Occupational Dermatoses Among Farmers

Abstract

Occupational dermatoses seen among farmers include fungous, viral and bacterial infections and infestations; dermatitis, including eczema; and tumors.

Milker's eczema and ragweed and poison ivy dermatitis are probably the most common forms of contact dermatitis occurring in farmers. Sensitization also results from use of fertilizers, soaps, detergents, insecticides, weed killers, preparations used to treat skin infections in animals, and other materials used on the farm.

Basal-cell epithelioma and squamous-cell carcinoma also may be classified as occupational diseases of farmers. The author recommends gentle but thorough curettage of such tumors, supplemented by irradiation with the gamma rays of radium.