[Dermatoses in the spinning and weaving industry].

In order to detect cutaneous alterations among the workers of a textile industry, the authors proceeded to a dermatologic examination of 1207 persons, with special emphasis on skin conditions of the fingers and toes. The most noticeable and specific alteration related to the work was a linear hyperkeratosis of the lateral aspects of the first and second finger of the right hand--the fingers of prehension--submitted to repeated micro-traumas due to the manipulation of the threads. In second place in order of frequency were the intertriginous inflammation of the toes, due to the high level of temperature and humidity prevalent in some areas of the plant, besides the use of inadequate shoes and socks. Some suggestions are made for reducing the incidence of dermatologic risks.