Evaluation of Cutaneous Lesions in Workers of Isfahan Tar Refinement Factory: a Cross Sectional Study

Occupational disorders may be caused by chemical, physical, mechanical and biological reason. One of the chemical agents responsible for many of the chemical damages is aromatic, polycyclic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are found in coke, coal tar, cresosote, asphalt and gases produced by coal. In the current study, we evaluated cutaneous lesions in workers of Isfahan tar refinement factory. This was a cross-sectional study. All (about 340) workers of the factory during 2006-2007 were included in the study. They were asked for presence of any skin disorder or symptoms. All of them were then examined for presences of any cutaneous lesion. Physical examination was performed by 2 expert dermatologists. Wood’s lamp examination, biopsy or direct smear and culture were performed to establish diagnosis in the doubtful cases. Overall, 340 subjects, 334 male and 6 female, were included in this study. 58 subjects (17.1%) had history of direct exposure and without protective measure to chemicals. 159 subjects (46.8%) had history of direct exposure but with protective measure to chemicals. In addition, 82 subjects (34.1%) had history of indirect exposure to chemicals. Different kinds of dermatitis were found in 82 subjects (24.1%). Tar itch as defined by presence of folliculitis along with pruritus and comedones were found in 67 subjects ( 19.7%). It seems that annual examination of the tar –exposed workers to find any signs of cutaneous malignancies are essential. In addition, follow up of the workers, even after change of occupation and during retirement, seems to be essential.