Abstract :
Occupational disases are a group of diseases develop due to the factors at the workplaces. These diseases occur in the course of employment. Dermatologic problems and respiratory diseases have been the most common forms of occupational diseases. For the diagnosis of this group of diseases a detailed work history is very essential. Other measures are the same as the methods used in the diagnosis procedure of any other diseases, being physical examination and the necessary laboratory investigations. Biochemical tests and the radiology are the most commonly used laboratory methods for diagnosis. The first principle for the treatment is removal of the patient from work environment to prevent further exposure. Some specific treatment approaches are used when available. Occupational diseases are “preventable” diseases, and this is a very essential issue in the study of these diseases. Since the etiologic factor of occupational diseases are at the workplace, it can be easily detected and controlled completely at the workplace using some engineering measures. In addition to the engineering measures, some medical approaches such as placement in a suitable work and periodic health examination are used. Occupational diseases are vey rare in Turkey. One of the main reasons for this is, not getting enough information about the work history of the patients in routine daily medical practice. Therefore, the possible relation between the disease and the work exposures can not be established and the condition can not be regarded as an “occupational” disease. Besides, there have been some bureaucratic difficulties in the diagnosis procedure of the occupational diseases. Nevertheless, recently some measures were integrated into these processes to simplify the diagnostic procedures. When doctors get the necessary information on the working life and work exposures of their patients, more reliable diagnoses will be achieved.
