Evidence-based guidelines for the prevention, identification and management of occupational contact dermatitis and urticaria

Abstract

Background: Occupational contact dermatitis is the most frequently reported work-related skin disease in many countries. A systematic review was commissioned by the British Occupational Health Research Foundation in response to a House of Lords Science and Technology Committee recommendation.

Objectives: The systematic review aims to improve the prevention, identification and management of occupational contact dermatitis and urticaria by providing evidence-based recommendations.

Methods: The literature was searched systematically using Medline and Embase for English-language articles published up to the end of September 2009. Evidence-based statements and recommendations were graded using the Royal College of General Practitioner's three-star system and the revised Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network grading system.

Results: Three thousand one hundred and fifty-five abstracts were identified and screened. From these, 786 full papers were obtained and appraised. One hundred and nineteen of these studies were used to produce 36 graded evidence statements and 10 key recommendations.

Conclusions: This evidence review and its recommendations focus on interventions and outcomes to provide a robust approach to the prevention, identification and occupational management of occupational contact dermatitis and urticaria, based on and using the best available medical evidence.