Dr. Zeenath Begum on Contact Dermatitis Among Housemaids and Laundry Workers (Part-1)
In Part-1 of this insightful interview with Sai Vinthiyaa Gopinath of MedBound Times, Dr. Zeenath Begum, MBBS, MD (Dermatology), sheds light on contact dermatitis—particularly among housemaids and laundry workers. Dr. Zeenath Begum completed her MBBS and MD Dermatology from Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Dr. Zeenath shares her clinical expertise on how daily exposure to detergents, dishwashing liquids, and household substances can trigger allergic and irritant dermatitis. From distinguishing between the two forms to understanding the socio-environmental impact, she brings attention to a crucial yet often overlooked occupational health concern.
Could you please tell our readers about yourself?
I am Dr. Zeenath Begum, MBBS, MD. I completed my undergraduate degree in MBBS in 2015 and postgraduation in MD, Dermatology in 2020 at Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, with a first-class. I have 9 years of experience in the field of dermatology.
My research was focused on skin changes in chronic alcoholics. I have conducted various health talks in schools, colleges, and companies, and have also organised free health camps for students in several schools in Chennai. Additionally, I received the Corona Warrior Award from the Muslim Medical Foundation for my services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What are the most common types of contact dermatitis seen in housemaids and laundry workers?
The most common type of contact dermatitis is due to the detergents they use for dishwashing and also for washing clothes.
How can we differentiate between allergic and irritant contact dermatitis clinically in this population?
In irritant contact dermatitis, the lesions are mostly oozing, sometimes pus-filled, less commonly pruritic, and usually short-term.
Whereas in allergic contact dermatitis, the lesions are mostly pigmented, dry, pruritic, not pus-filled, and are typically chronic.
Are there any particular allergens or irritants that are more prevalent in their daily routines?
The most commonly encountered ones in daily routines include detergents, vegetable gums during cutting vegetables, tamarind water, and turmeric.
What role does repeated exposure to water, detergents, and disinfectants play in triggering dermatitis?
It initially starts with a certain amount of skin peeling, which in later stages leads to fissures and, consequently, secondary infections.
How do environmental and socioeconomic factors contribute to the severity or chronicity of their condition?
Patients in the low socioeconomic class, especially those living in rural areas and slums, are more prone to these types of irritant and allergic contact dermatitis due to their use of certain household products. Also, poor hygiene, daily exposure at home and work, and a lack of education and awareness in maintaining their living conditions play a huge role.
What are the key diagnostic tools or tests (e.g., patch testing) used in suspected cases of contact dermatitis?
We use the patch test, where different substances (potential allergens) are placed on the patient’s back.
The patches are left in place for 48 hours, then removed and observed.
The skin is examined for any signs of reaction such as redness, itching, swelling, or blisters.
A second evaluation is performed after 96 hours (4–7 days) to assess for delayed reactions.
Stay tuned for Part-2 with Dr. Zeenath Begum where we discuss more about education, awareness and best practices of contact dermatitis among house hold maids and laundry workers.
