Occupational Dermatitis — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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ModerateInflammatory DermatosesOccupational DermatitisSCE Dermatology

A 40-year-old woman with severe chronic hand eczema has occupational exposure to rubber chemicals. Patch testing is positive to thiuram mix and mercaptobenzothiazole. She needs to continue wearing gloves at work. What type of glove should she use?

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Correct answer: E — Vinyl or nitrile gloves (accelerator-free alternatives)

Thiuram mix and mercaptobenzothiazole are rubber accelerator chemicals used in the vulcanisation process of natural and synthetic rubber gloves. Patients with confirmed allergy to these chemicals must avoid standard rubber gloves. Vinyl (PVC) or accelerator-free nitrile gloves are appropriate alternatives as they do not contain rubber accelerators. Note that standard nitrile gloves may still contain accelerators — specifically 'accelerator-free' nitrile must be specified. Cotton liners worn beneath gloves help absorb sweat. The patient should receive a comprehensive avoidance list from the patch test clinic identifying all potential rubber chemical sources beyond gloves.

Reference: BAD 2017 Contact Dermatitis Guidelines; HSE