Fiberglass dermatitis: a case report

• Published in: The Kaohsiung journal of medical sciences Vol. 12; no. 8; p. 491
• Main Authors: Chang, C H, Wang, C M, Ho, C K, Su, W B, Yu, H S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: China (Republic : 1949- ) 01.08.1996
• Subjects: Adult; Dermatitis, Occupational - etiology; Dermatitis, Occupational - prevention & control; Glass; Humans; Male; Occupational Exposure
• ISSN: 1607-551X
• DOI: 10.6452/KJMS.199608.0491

Glass fibers are the most widely distributed mineral fibers because of their multiple applications, chiefly as insulation materials, and have become important in replacing asbestos fibers. Fiberglass dermatitis is one of the most common forms of occupational dermatitis resulting from mechanical irritation. Here we report a typical case. A 30-year-old male worker handled the cutting and grinding of fiberglass mats and then mixed them with resin as reinforcing materials. He complained of intense itching after the first two weeks of employment. Erythematous macules, papules and folliculitis with excoriation developed over his arms, neck, face and upper chest. There were many transparent glass fiber spicules with the diameter around 7-10 microns detected by applying the adhesive tape against the skin lesion, followed by microscopic observation. He was much improved during hospitalization with oral antihistamine and topical steroid ointment. To prevent this occupational disease, we suggest proper procedures of production, storage, transportation and cleaning in the industrial setting and proper protective clothing in personnel to minimize the release of and exposure to glass fibers.