[Erasmus syndrome in a dental technician. Importance of the prevention of occupational hazards].

A case of generalised scleroderma is reported in a dental technician exposed to the risk of silicosis. A study of the occupational toxic risks in this patient showed pulmonary overload with silica and metallic particles composed of chromium, cobalt and tungsten. The job also involved the handling of vinyl chloride and its stable polymer. This chemical is known to give rise to scleroderma-type skin disease. The relationship between these occupational factors leads to a difficult physio-pathological problem and justifies preventative measures, even though they may be costly and demanding.