Contact dermatitis

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A red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or object.

The most common causes are soaps, cosmetics, latex gloves, pieces of clothing, plants and metals.

It is diagnosed by interview and physical examination.

After contact, it is very important to wash the area thoroughly with cold water and soap to remove the irritating substance. The use of cortisone ointments and/or antihistamines may help to relieve the symptoms.

Bibliographic references
  1. Leslie P. Lawley, Calvin O. McCall y Thomas J.Lawley. Harrison. Manual de Medicina. 16º edición. 345-346.
  2. T.Gallart. Enfermedades con lesiones por respuestas de hipersensibilidad retardada. Farreras Rozman Medicina Interna Volumen 2.12ª Edición. 2714.
  3. Ale IS, Maibach HI. Irritant contact dermatitis. Rev Environ Health 2014; 29:195.
  4. Thyssen JP, Johansen JD, Linneberg A, Menné T. The epidemiology of hand eczema in the general population-prevalence and main findings. Contact Dermatitis 2010; 62:75.
  5. Jakasa I, Thyssen JO, Kezix S. The role of skin barrier in occupational contact dermatitis. Exp Dermatol 2018; 27:909.
  6. Angelova-Fischer I, Stilla T, Kezic S, et al. Barrier Function and Natural Moisturizing Factor Levels After Cumulatic Exposure to Short chain Aliphatic Alcohols and Detergents: results of Occlusion-modified Tandem Repeated Irritation Test. Acta Derm Venerol 2016; 96:880.
  7. Warshaw EM, Belsito DV, Taylor JS, et al. North American Contact Dermatitis Group patch test results: 2009 to 2010. Dermatitis 2013; 24:50.
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Symptoms

    Reddened skin


    Clusters of vesicles


    Itchy skin


    Itchy fingers


    Neck itching

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Symptom persistence for more than two weeks after the initial treatment
Foul-smelling secretion
The rash involves eyes, mouth and genitalia

Self-care

Avoid the irritant or allergen responsible for the rash.
Consume antihistamines against itching.
Apply cream or an ointment with corticosteroids.
Apply cold compresses 3 times a day for 20 minutes to reduce the symptoms.