Occupational Rhinitis

Rhinitis is one of the most common occupational diseases. Rhinitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the upper respiratory tract, characterized by a high prevalence and a complex pathogenesis. Work-related rhinitis (WRR) can be divided into occupational rhinitis (OR) and work-exacerbated rhinitis (WER). It is not only considered as a disease entity but also in the context of medical certification as the allergic disease associated with occupational exposure. Since it causes little disability, it is often neglected by affected individuals. However, it is often the preliminary manifestation of a respiratory disorder that could lead to physical complications and socio-economic disability. The potential causative agents of rhinitis are both numerous and diverse. Respiratory disorders that initially manifest as rhinitis may progress to asthma with continued exposure. Prevention of occupational rhinitis depends upon reducing exposure to allergens and irritants. When rhinitis becomes apparent, removal of the causative agent is essential to stop progression to asthma. The respiratory system is exposed to the noxious action of dusts, gases, smokes and vapors directly in the environment of the work but it is secondly only touched, because the skin is the most displayed (exposed) organ as organ targets irritating and professional allergens.

Author(s): Lucio Maci and Mario Tavolaro

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