The diagnosis of occupational contact dermatitis relies on:
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A diagnosis of contact dermatitis by the medical practitioner. The diagnosis must provide a detailed medical history and the nature and distribution of the skin lesions. A colour photograph will be helpful. |
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A full history of all occupational risk factors (physical, chemical and biological). |
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Occupational exposure to a known causative agent(s) of contact dermatitis and a chronological relationship between the dermatitis and the work environment. |
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A confirmatory skin test e.g. Patch Test, where appropriate. |
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The opinion and confirmation of the diagnosis by a dermatologist when the dermatitis is recurrent or resistant to treatment for more than 6 consecutive weeks. |