An observational study on the effects of aviation turbine fuel and lubricants on the skin of Indian Air Force ground crew in flying stations.

Background: Ground crew of the Air Force routinely handle aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and lubricants and a need was felt to study the adverse effects of these substances on their skin so that remedial measures could be taken to prevent these adverse effects.

Methods: A multi-centric, cross-sectional, observational study was performed at three Air Force flying stations. 109 ground crew members of the Indian Air Force (IAF) who were in direct contact with ATF and lubricants were screened for dermatological manifestations on exposed areas. History of atopy was elicited, systemic and dermatological examination done and occlusive patch testing carried out where indicated. Fungal infections were excluded by a potassium hydroxide mount.

Results: 20 out of the 109 personnel (18.34%) were symptomatic in the form of mild irritant contact dermatitis. There was no case of allergic contact dermatitis. Only two cases showed an irritant reaction on patch testing. 65% of the symptomatic personnel were atopic. There was no predisposing trade or age group for adverse effects to ATF.

Conclusion: This study revealed that contact with ATF is associated with only mild irritant contact dermatitis in exposed ground crew members of the IAF and atopy was a predisposing factor for susceptibility to the dermatitis.