Cautioning women against wearing plastic bindis, Mumbai-based Dermatologist (skin specialist) Hema Jairajani narrated the case of her patient whose marriage was on the rocks after she developed leukoderma. A mother of three sons, she had an allergic reaction to the paste behind the plastic bindi, leading to the disease.

Delivering a lecture-cum-slide show on occupational diseases at a symposium held by the Indian Medical Association here on Sunday, she pointed out that skin infections had become rampant with increasing use of chemicals. Washerwomen are afflicted with chronic dermatitis due to the use of detergent and other chemicals, she said.

Specifically referring to workers, she said gumboots did not protect cement workers effectively and those working in acid factories could contract dermatitis. Flower vendors, horticulturists growing marigold (used for offering gods) could also develop allergic reaction. Photographers, printers, and those applying hair dye could be victims of dermatitis, she cautioned.

Deputy Director of National Institute of Occupational Health, Dave, who has specialised in Silicosis, said skin ailments were highly prevalent among the industrial labour working in the dust-related industry, and most often doctors mistook it for tuberculosis.