Occupational Dermatoses — MCQs

Occupational Dermatoses Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 11: Which of the following can cause a scleroderma-like disorder?

A. Vinyl chloride
B. Bleomycin
C. Aromatic hydrocarbons
D. All of the above (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** Scleroderma-like disorders (also known as **Systemic Sclerosis-like syndromes**) are a group of conditions that mimic the cutaneous and systemic features of scleroderma but are typically triggered by exposure to specific drugs, chemicals, or environmental toxins. Unlike idiopathic Systemic Sclerosis (SSc), these syndromes often lack the characteristic Raynaud’s phenomenon or specific autoantibodies (like anti-Scl-70). **Why "All of the above" is correct:** * **Vinyl Chloride:** Exposure (common in PVC plastic workers) leads to **"Vinyl Chloride Disease,"** characterized by sclerodactyly, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and acro-osteolysis (resorption of the distal phalanges). * **Bleomycin:** This cytotoxic drug can induce skin fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis by stimulating fibroblast activity and increasing collagen synthesis. * **Aromatic Hydrocarbons:** Solvents such as **benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene** have been strongly linked to the development of skin thickening and fibrosis through immune-mediated mechanisms. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Toxic Oil Syndrome:** Caused by ingestion of denatured rapeseed oil; presents with scleroderma-like skin changes. * **Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome:** Linked to contaminated **L-tryptophan** supplements. * **Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF):** A scleroderma mimic seen in renal failure patients after exposure to **Gadolinium**-based contrast agents. * **Pentazocine:** Chronic injection of this analgesic can cause localized woody induration and fibrosis at injection sites. * **Key differentiator:** Scleroderma-like syndromes usually lack the internal organ involvement (like esophageal dysmotility) seen in classic Systemic Sclerosis.

Question 12: Hunan hand occurs due to exposure to-

A. Capsicum (Correct Answer)
B. Aniline
C. Carbon monoxide
D. Abrus precatorius

Explanation: ***Capsicum*** - **Hunan hand** is a contact dermatitis caused by exposure to **capsaicin**, the active component in **chilli peppers** (Capsicum). - It results in a **burning sensation**, redness, and peeling of the skin, particularly on the hands. *Aniline* - **Aniline** exposure is associated with **methemoglobinemia**, leading to **cyanosis** and **hypoxia**, not a localized skin reaction called Hunan hand. - It primarily affects the **blood's oxygen-carrying capacity** and can cause systemic toxicity. *Carbon monoxide* - **Carbon monoxide** poisoning is a systemic condition that causes **hypoxia** by binding to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin. - It does not induce a specific dermatological condition like Hunan hand but can lead to a **cherry-red skin discoloration** in severe cases. *Abrus precatorius* - **Abrus precatorius** (rosary pea) contains **abrin**, a highly toxic lectin that can be fatal if ingested or injected. - Exposure typically causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms, or systemic poisoning if abraded skin contact, but not a recognized skin condition like Hunan hand.

Practice by Chapter

Irritant Contact Dermatitis in Workplace

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Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Workplace

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Occupational Acne

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Chemical Burns

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Occupational Infections

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Physical Injuries in Workplace

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Occupational Pigmentary Disorders

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Occupational Nail Disorders

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Prevention Strategies in Occupational Dermatoses

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Diagnosis and Patch Testing

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Worker's Compensation Issues

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Occupational Skin Disease Surveillance

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