skin reaction types in contact dermatitis
Last reviewed 03/2021
skin reaction types in contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis may be classified into the following reaction types:
- subjective irritancy
- idiosyncratic stinging and smarting reactions occur within minutes of contact, usually on the face, in the absence of visible changes
- cosmetic or sunscreen constituents are common precipitants
- acute irritant contact dermatitis
- often caused by
- a single overwhelming exposure or
- a few brief exposures to strong irritants or caustic agents
- chronic (cumulative) irritant contact dermatitis
- results from repetitive exposure to weaker irritants. These irritants may be either
- wet - detergents, organic solvents, soaps, weak acids and alkalis
- dry - low-humidity air, heat, powders, paper, cardboard and dusts
- allergic contact dermatitis
- this involves sensitization of the immune system to a specific allergen
or allergens with resulting dermatitis or exacerbation of pre-existing dermatitis
- phototoxic, photoallergic and photoaggravated contact dermatitis
- some allergens are also photoallergens
- systemic contact dermatitis (systemic allergic dermatitis)
- occurs following systemic administration of a chemical, usually a drug,
to which topical sensitization has occurred previously
- protein contact dermatitis
- repetitive handling of proteins, usually foods, results initially in immediate urticarial symptoms and signs, but later progresses to a dermatitic reaction
- proteins may be
- vegetables - potato, garlic
- meats, fish - in food handlers
- flour, enzymes - in bakers and pharmaceutical manufacture
- animal dander and fluids - in veterinarians and abattoir workers
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