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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
10:27
Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Dermatitis artefacta?
Luis Conde-Salazar1, Ruud Valks, María Antonia Pastor
1Servicio de Dermatología Laboral, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Seguridad del Trabajo, and the Servicio de Inmunología, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.
Summary
Occupational contact dermatitis caused by rubber gloves led to intensely itchy, linear lesions on a construction worker's hand and forearm. Symptoms improved when not working, indicating a work-related skin condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Occupational Medicine
Background:
- Occupational contact dermatitis is a common skin condition resulting from exposure to substances in the workplace.
- Identifying the causative agent is crucial for effective management and prevention.
Observation:
- A construction worker presented with pruritic, linear, excoriated, and crusted lesions on his left hand and forearm.
- Lesions were localized to the area covered by a rubber glove and flared with work, resolving during time off.
- Physical examination revealed lichenified plaques, excoriations, and scaly lesions, with hyperkeratosis on the palm.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms were strongly associated with wearing a rubber glove during construction work.
- The pattern of lesions suggested a contact irritant or allergic reaction to the glove material.
- Topical corticosteroid treatment led to progressive resolution of the dermatitis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering occupational exposures, specifically glove use, in the differential diagnosis of hand and forearm dermatoses.
- Proper protective equipment and material selection are essential in preventing occupational contact dermatitis in construction workers.
- Early diagnosis and management can prevent chronic skin changes and improve quality of life for affected individuals.
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