Contact%20dermatitis Signs and Symptoms
Definition
- Any skin disorder brought about by contact w/ an exogenous substance that triggers an allergic &/or irritant response
Signs and Symptoms
- Initially, lesions appear on the cutaneous site of principal exposure; may spread to other more distant sites due to contact or autosensitization
- Lesions are typically asymmetrical & unilateral
- Specific signs & symptoms will depend on the duration, location, degree of sensitivity & concentration of allergens
- Patch test shows reaction to allergen
- Acute eruptions present w/ macular erythema, papules, vesicles & bullae
- Lesions are usually lichenified, scaling, fissures w/ or without vesicles
- Pigmentary changes can occur
- Prone to irritation from chemical substances are the face, dorsum of the hands, finger webs, palms, soles or back
- Acute lesions are painful, edematous, erythematous, weepy & vesicular
- There is associated sensation of burning, stinging or pain in the site of contact to irritant
- Usually results from a single exposure to an irritant or caustic chemical
- Chronic lesions are dry, erythematous, scaling, fissuring, cracked & lichenified
- Hardening & adaptation of the skin may occur due to repeated contact w/ irritants
Risk Factors
Common Trigger Factors
- Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Medications, certain plants, metals, foods, fragrances, stabilizers in skin products, preservatives, etc
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis
- Strong alkaline soaps, organic solvents, acid, chlorinated or bleach type ingredients, inhalants, airborne chemicals, etc
Location of inflammation may suggest trigger factors for Allergic Contact Dermatitis & Irritant Contact Dermatitis
- Eg scalp & ears
- Possible trigger factors: Shampoo, hair dyes, topical medication, spectacles, metal earrings, etc
Allergic Contact Dermatitis & Irritant Contact Dermatitis may be related to occupational exposure
- Exposure to cement, epoxy, glues, paint & solvents may trigger allergic contact dermatitis
- Fuels, lubricants & cement may trigger irritant contact dermatitis