The tissue viability imaging system—Suitable method for discovering minimal skin changes in occupational screenings? Results of a cross-sectional field study

Weistenhöfer W, Uter W, Bernet F, Drexler H (2019)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2019

Journal

Book Volume: 25

Pages Range: 553-563

Journal Issue: 4

DOI: 10.1111/srt.12686

Abstract

Background: For early detection of initial skin changes in occupational screenings, only few objective assessment systems are available. Objectives: With the aim of assessing an objective measurement method for hand eczema, we trialed the application of the tissue viability imaging (TiVi) system, quantifying erythema non-invasively by polarized light spectroscopy. Materials and Methods: In a field study with 625 employees of a semiconductor production company, 411 were exposed to prolonged wearing of occlusive gloves in the clean room. TiVi system and Hand Eczema Score for Occupational Screenings (HEROS), a quantitative skin score for the hands, were used, supplemented by a standardized personal interview. Results: TiVi values of 65 up to 246 for each hand (palm or back), for each participant summed to overall 289 up to 848 (median 389), were measured. Higher TiVi values were noted for men, smokers, and with increasing age. Correlation between TiVi and HEROS was only weak. Several factors like skin pigmentation, thickness of the skin, or tattoos seem to influence TiVi results. Conclusions: The practical relevance of one-time measurements with the TiVi system in occupational screenings seems to be limited. Specifically, the TiVi system cannot replace dermatological examinations at the workplace. Notwithstanding, the application for other scientific purposes might be useful.

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APA:

Weistenhöfer, W., Uter, W., Bernet, F., & Drexler, H. (2019). The tissue viability imaging system—Suitable method for discovering minimal skin changes in occupational screenings? Results of a cross-sectional field study. Skin Research and Technology, 25(4), 553-563. https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/srt.12686

MLA:

Weistenhöfer, Wobbeke, et al. "The tissue viability imaging system—Suitable method for discovering minimal skin changes in occupational screenings? Results of a cross-sectional field study." Skin Research and Technology 25.4 (2019): 553-563.

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