The 14th Congress of the European Society of Contact Dermatitis, Milan, Milan, 18–20 October 2018
President’s report
Dear Colleagues,
A warm welcome to the 14th Congress of the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) in Milan from the ESCD president! The ESCD is proud to organise the biannual congresses which normally attract a broad international audience in this subspecialty field. Since the last memorable event in September 2016 in Manchester much has happened in the area of contact dermatitis: While the epidemic of contact allergy to methylisothiazolinone is probably starting to decline, we face a new, fashion-driven epidemic of acrylate contact allergy and see worrying problems related to the application of glucose sensors all across Europe. New allergens are coming up all the time, or are now encountered in a new exposure context. All the while the “big three” (metals, fragrances and biocides) linger on as persisting problems, perhaps partly influenced by the impact of regulatory decisions. Beyond contact dermatitis and contact allergy occurring in patients due to their more or less particular everyday exposures, new problems, but also solutions, have arisen in the occupational arena.
Therefore, an update of all current aspects of contact dermatitis, irritant or allergic, of the diagnosis, therapy and prevention, is certainly due. I invite all clinicians, researchers and scientists in general who are interested or involved in this field to come to Milan. Together, we look forward to an exciting scientific program and the lively discussions which are a hallmark of an ESCD congress.
Wolfgang Uter,
President