Background Quality of life (QL) is an important component of individuals’ general well-being, particularly in active adults. However, factors influencing skin related QL have not been fully examined. Furthermore, the role of gender differences in relation to QL in occuptaional dermatitis (OD) has also not been examined in detail. This study aimed to assess determinants of skin-related QL of healthcare workers and examine the role of gender differences.

Methods A cross-sectional and exhaustive study was conducted among healthcare workers of four public hospitals in the central region of Tunisia. All cases of dermatitis recognized as occupational disease were included. Skin-related QoL was assessed using the validated Tunisian version of the ‘Dermatology Life Quality Index’ (DLQI).

Results A total of 37 cases of OD were collected with an annual incidence of 4.2 cases per 10,000 workers. The population was predominantly female (73%) and mean aged 44.7±9.4 years. Nurses were the most represented occupational category (38%). Allergic contact dermatitis was the most frequent diagnosis (96%). The median score of DLQI was 5. Twelve patients (32%) had a DLQI score > 10, meaning a significant impairment in skin related QoL. Among them, 11 (92%) were female (p = 0.11). Multivariate analysis showed an association between the impairment of skin-related QoL and female gender (p = 0.04; OR = 19.384), exposure to disinfecting chemicals in the workplace (p = 0.01; OR = 17.306) and the absence of occupational reclassification (p = 0.01; OR = 21.567).

Conclusion This study has revealed skin-related QoL is significantly more impaired in women. Several studies have reported a similar result. This could be explained by the fact that traditionally, in Tunisia, women have been predominantly responsible for household chores, and therefore more exposed to substances that can trigger dermatological conditions. In addition, the aesthetic consequences of skin pathology do not have the same impact on men and women.