Occupational contact dermatitis due to essential oils.

Background: Allergic contact dermatitis induced by the occupational use of products containing essential oils has not been studied comprehensively.

Objectives: The aim of the present report was to describe the characteristics, diagnosis, and outcome of 5 patients with occupational contact dermatitis because of essential oils attending our outpatient dermatology clinics over a 2-year period.

Patients: These patients are added to the 11 cases reported thus far in the literature.

Results: The research shows that for proper diagnosis, patch tests with the standard series and the fragrance series should be performed, in addition to tests with the specific oils to which the patients were exposed.

Conclusions: Patients should be instructed to avoid the allergens identified. Sensitization to essential oils has important implications for the occupational future of affected individuals.