Contact dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis is skin inflammation. It occurs because the skin has been exposed to a substance that irritates it or causes an allergic reaction. Many natural and artificial chemicals can trigger contact dermatitis such as soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry and plants. The rash isn't contagious or life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Contact dermatitis can become a long-lasting (chronic) condition. This is more likely if:
- Symptoms of either type of dermatitis are not treated
- The skin continues to be exposed to the substance that is triggering the skin reaction
In chronic contact dermatitis, the skin eventually becomes thick, scaly and dry. Skin color changes and there are areas of hair loss.
Classification:
- A. IRRITANT CONTACT DERMATITIS. This is triggered by exposure to a chemical that is poisonous (toxic) or irritating to the skin. It is not an allergic reaction. In children, the most common form of irritant contact dermatitis is "diaper rash." This is a skin reaction in the diaper area. It is caused by prolonged contact with the natural chemicals found in urine and stool. Childhood irritant contact dermatitis also can develop around the mouth because of skin contact with dribbles of baby food or drools of saliva. In adults, this condition is often an occupational illness. It is triggered by exposure to strong soaps, solvents or cutting agents. It is especially common among Hairdressers, Health care workers, Homemakers, Janitors, Machinists and Mechanics. Common irritants include:
- Solvents
- Rubbing alcohol
- Bleach and detergents
- Shampoos, permanent wave solutions
- Airborne substances, such as sawdust or wool dust
- Plants
- Fertilizers and pesticides
Symptoms: usually begin right after exposure to the harmful substance. They are limited to areas of the skin that have been in direct contact with the irritant.
- In mild cases, there may be only mild redness of the skin.
- More severe cases may cause skin swelling, blistering or ulceration.
- B. ALLERGIC CONTACT DERMATITIS - This is an immune reaction. It occurs only in people who are naturally oversensitive to certain chemicals. With allergic contact dermatitis, the inflammation may not develop until 24 to 36 hours after contact with the allergen. This is because allergic contact dermatitis involves the body's immune defenses. The most common types of allergens responsible are:
- A chemical found in poison ivy, oak and sumac
- Nickel and cobalt in metal jewelry, clothing snaps, zippers and metal-plated objects
- Latex in gloves and rubberized clothing