Tobacco-induced contact dermatitis L23.7

Allergic contact dermatitis due to hypersensitivity to the components of the tobacco plant.

Contact dermatitis is commonly observed in tobacco workers, couriers, and cigar makers, whereas smokers are rarely affected and cigarette packers are affected only in exceptional cases. The skin sites affected also vary depending on whether the exposure is occupational or nonoccupational.In addition to natural substances, various compounds are added to tobacco during processing and manufacturing. For this reason, it is extremely difficult to determine the etiologic factors. Another important aspect to consider is the contributory role of tobacco in triggering or exacerbating contact dermatitis in response to other exposures, occupational or nonoccupational.

Contact irritation from tobacco is far more common than contact allergy. The sensitizing compound in tobacco is not known; nicotine is highly toxic but does not appear to cause sensitization except in rare cases.

1. Bonamonte D et al. (2016) Tobacco-induced contact dermatitis. Eur J Dermatol 26(:223-231.

2. Weary PE et al (1969) Allergic contact dermatitis from tobacco smoke residues. J Am Med Ass 208: 1905.