Based on investigations on the manifestations occurred in oil workers working in the hinterland of desert areas

a new term

"desert dryness syndrome" （DDS） was introduced. An analysis were made on frequencies of symptom incidence

scoring

specific nature and affinity relationship the method of differential diagnosis for the severity

existing time of the illness and characteristics were introduced and performed quantitatively. Results showed that the DDS is an actual existing disorder. The incidence and structural types of oil - worker group was significantly different from those of non - oil worker group. It is claimed that DDS is different from conventional dryness syndrome and possesses physiological and pathological changes involving many organs and systems

which are closely connected with psychological and mental disturbances. Active measures should be taken for its prevention and treatment.