Contact Dermatitis – Allergic (ACD)

defining characteristics

Itching, redness, erythematous papules; possible spongiosis and edema –> crusted vesicles;
Diaper dermatitis (irritant, also caused by Candida), poison ivy ACD – due to oleoresin in Rhus group of plants); nickel ACD neomycin ACD; formaldehyde ACD

disease development

Allergic – patient becomes sensitized from previous allergen exposure (no rash at first exposure); upon re-exposure to antigen, there is a delayed-hypersensitivity reaction

potential causes

Allergic – allergy response (poison ivy, does not occur in everybody)

epidemiology

risk factors

labimaging

Patch testing

conventional treatment

Avoid irritant/allergen; wash immediately after exposure; calomine to soothe/dry out (AVOID sensitizers like topical benadryl/Caladryl); topical corticosteroid

complications

prevention

protocols