Abstract

 

Apricot is an important source of livelihood in Malatya. Sulfur dioxide is used as a preservative in dried apricots. Any possible dermatological effect of sulfur dioxide was examined on 200 apricot workers and 100 controls. There was no significant difference between the study and control groups. However when the people working in the field and the apricot packing units were compared moniliasis of hands was more prevalent in the unit workers. This was due to the macerating effect of the water used during the packing procedure. Additionally, sulfur dioxide seems to be beneficial to some common skin disorders such as contact dermatitis, acne vulgaris and scabies. [Journal of Turgut Özal Medical Center 1(1): 20-25,1994]

Key Words : Apricot, sulfur, skin health.