[Dermatitis in VDT operators: a review of the literature]

The paper reports studies on the relationship between work with VDT's and dermatitis in the operators. From the first observation in 1979, numerous studies have been carried out to try and explain the reason why some forms of dermatitis like rosacea, eczema seborrhoeic and erythematitis appeared more frequently in VDT operators compared to the general population. The various authors at present consider low indoor air humidity associated with a strong electrostatic field to be essential factors in the occurrence of dermatitis. Laboratory experiments have shown that the presence of a strong electrostatic field does not seem to be important in itself. Similarly, it is agreed that X, UV-A or UV-B radiations do not play any causative role in dermatitis. Further investigations are required to assess the influence of indoor climatic factors and the presence of irritant substances in the air of the working environment.