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Dermatitis: Contact Dermatitis
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Dermatitis is a broad term covering many different disorders that all result in a red, itchy rash. The term eczema is sometimes used for dermatitis. Some types of dermatitis affect only specific parts of the body, whereas others can occur anywhere. Some types of dermatitis have a known cause, whereas others do not. However, dermatitis is always the skin's way of reacting to severe dryness, scratching, an irritating substance, or an allergen. Typically, that substance comes in direct contact with the skin, but sometimes the substance is swallowed.
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Contact Dermatitis is an inflammation (reddening) of the skin. It is caused by contact with a substance such as soap or chemicals. The dermatitis may ... be caused by contact with plants, such as poison ivy, poison oak, and ragweed.
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This type of Dermatitis occurs with an allergen such as poison ivy or an irritant such as skin soap. Signs and symptoms include redness and itching. In severe cases, you may have blisters and weeping sores. The skin changes in contact Dermatitis are limited to where you had contact with the allergen or irritant.
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Should you develop a contact dermatitis, see your dermatologist for relief. He/she can perform a patch test to determine the irritating substance. If you suspect a nickel allergy, it is a good idea to have the dermatologist test for nickel sensitivity when considering having ears pierced. In any case, the piercing should be done with a stainless-steel needle. As a further precaution, stainless-steel or high-quality 18 karat gold studs should be worn as the first pair of earrings. Nickel sensitivity often does not result in a rash for weeks or months after contact with the metal.
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Once the diagnosis of contact dermatitis is suspected, it is important to challenge your skin in a process referred to as patch testing. Patch testing is performed in the office setting. Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy will apply various strengths of topical compounds to the skin. He will then assess the tested areas in 48 hours to see if a localized skin rash develops. Once an allergen or irritant has been identified, Dr. Harvey and Dr. Hardy will review with you the sources of these agents. In this way you may practice avoidance techniques to help to minimize your risk of developing new skin reactions.
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Determining the cause of contact dermatitis is not always easy. The person's occupation, hobbies, household duties, vacations, clothing, topical drug use, cosmetics, and household members' activities must be considered. Most people are unaware of all the substances that touch their skin. Often, the location of the initial rash is an important clue, particularly if it occurs under an item of clothing or jewelry or only in areas exposed to sunlight. However, many substances that people touch with their hands are unknowingly transferred to the face, where the more sensitive facial skin may react even if the hands do not.
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Contact Dermatitis