Contact dermatitis is a change in normal skin condition caused by contact with foreign substances. Skin may become dry, flaky and peel off in patches. Symptoms may include itching, swelling blisters or redness. Severe cases may result in cracked, bleeding skin and changes in the fingernails. The two recognized forms of contact dermatitis are:
1) Irritant Contact Dermatitis is essentially a chemical burn injury affecting only the skin area in direct contact with an irritant. All individuals exposed to the irritant are generally affected and the reaction is seen the first time contact occurs.
2) Allergic Contact Dermatitis is an acquired sensitivity developed over as an individual is exposed to a causative agent on a regular basis. Allergies cannot be cured--the only way to prevent reactions is to avoid contact with the allergen.
If you want to learn more about this problem that can affect florist and greenhouse workers, contact the Society of American Florists (SAF) 1601 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; (703) 836-8700. They can send you a articles and a poster with instructions in how to prevent this problem.
