Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Poison oak rash on the arm Latex allergy Poison plants Dermatitis, nickel on the sole Dermatitis, contact Dermatitis, close-up of allergic contact Dermatitis, contact on the cheek Dermatitis, pustular contact Poison ivy on the knee Poison ivy on the leg Phytophotodermatitis on the hand
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Contact dermatitis
Alternative Names: Dermatitis - contact; Allergic dermatitis; Dermatitis - allergic; Poison ivy; Poison oak; Poison sumac Symptoms: Itching (pruritus) of the skin in exposed areas Skin redness or inflammation in the exposed area Tenderness of the skin in the exposed area Localized swelling of the skin Warmth of the exposed area (may occur) Skin lesion or rash at the site of exposure Lesions of any type: redness, rash, papules (pimple-like), vesicles, and bullae (blisters) May involve oozing, draining, or crusting May become scaly, raw, or thickened Signs and tests: The diagnosis is primarily based on the skin appearance and a history of exposure to an irritant or an allergen. Text Continues Below According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, "Patch testing is the gold standard for contact allergen identification." Allergy testing with skin patches may isolate the suspected allergen that is causing the reaction. Patch testing is used for patients who have chronic, recurring contact dermatitis. It requires three office visits and must be done by a clinician with detailed experience in the procedures and interpretation of results. Patients should bring suspected materials with them, especially if they have already tested those materials on a small area of their skin and noticed a reaction. Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>