To the Editor.—
Skin disorders are a major contributor to lost productivity in the workplace, accounting for up to 45% of all occupationally related diseases. Hand dermatitis, in particular, may account for up to 75% of industrial-related skin disorders.1 A wide variety of barrier creams have been developed in an effort to address this problem. We know of several anecdotal reports of Dermashield (Benchmark Lab Inc, Ft Lauderdale, Fla), a new topical barrier substance, being effective in preventing allergic contact dermatitis from poison ivy. This study was designed to study its efficacy in preventing rhus dermatitis. Prevention of rhus dermatitis as well as patch testing to toxicodendron antigen has been well described.2,3
Subjects and Methods.—
A random group of healthy adults between 18 and 60 years of age was selected and served as their own controls. All subjects were initially patch tested with six dilutions of poison ivy