Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction, making the skin uncomfortable and unsightly. Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in New Jersey and Philadelphia offers treatment for this problem, providing their patients with comprehensive care from diagnosis to ongoing allergy management.
- What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
- What Causes Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
- Types of Skin Reactions Caused by Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- What are the Allergic Contact Dermatitis Symptoms?
- Diagnosing Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Treatment Options for Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Preventative Measures for Avoiding Allergic Contact Dermatitis
- Frequently Asked Questions about Allergic Contact Dermatitis
What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
Allergic contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation. The rash is not contagious but can be a very uncomfortable, delayed hypersensitivity reaction that often appears within days of exposure, lasting 2 to 4 weeks. People of all ages can be affected by allergic contact dermatitis, with certain professions, such as metal workers, hairdressers, and healthcare workers, having a higher risk of developing the condition.
What Causes Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
Allergic contact dermatitis is the immune system’s response to a specific allergen. In some cases, the cause of contact dermatitis may be difficult to identify, especially if the reaction is delayed or if multiple substances are involved.
Allergens in the Environment
Common environmental allergens that can cause allergic contact dermatitis include pollen, mold spores, and animal dander.
Contact with Chemicals and Metals
Exposure to certain chemicals and metals, such as cleaning products or nickel, can lead to an allergic reaction. Nickel is commonly found in jewelry, belt buckles, and other metal objects that come into contact with the skin.
Exposure to Plant Resins and Pollens
Some plants, such as poison ivy, poison oak, and pine, produce resins that can cause an allergic reaction. Many people also have a reaction to ragweed or grass pollen. A variety of tree pollens can also be problematic for some people.
Allergic Reaction to Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Detergents
Many personal care products, including cosmetics, toiletries, and detergents, contain ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction. Common culprits include fragrances, hair dye, rubber gloves, and certain preservatives.
Prolonged Exposure to Sunlight
Some people are predisposed to sun sensitivity. Others develop allergy symptoms only after being triggered by another factor, such as taking medication or coming into contact with certain plants.
Types of Skin Reactions Caused by Allergic Contact Dermatitis
There are several types of skin reactions that can result from allergic contact dermatitis:
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
This reaction often results in red, dry, and cracked skin when the skin is exposed to an irritant such as soap, water, detergents, or cleaning products. Irritant contact dermatitis is more common and different from allergic contact dermatitis, which triggers the immune system.
Acute Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Acute allergic contact dermatitis is characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms, including redness, swelling, and skin blistering. This type of reaction typically occurs within 24 to 48 hours of exposure to the allergen.
Chronic Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Chronic allergic contact dermatitis is a long-lasting condition resulting from repeated exposure to the allergen. Over time, this chronic inflammation can lead to changes in the structure and function of the skin. The skin may become thickened, rough, and scaly, and may lose its normal elasticity and pliability.
Allergic Contact Urticaria
Also known as hives, allergic contact urticaria is characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, red, and itchy welts on the skin. Hives can occur within minutes to hours after exposure to the allergen.
Subacute Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Subacute describes a condition that is intermediate in severity or onset between acute and chronic conditions. Subacute allergic contact dermatitis is a less severe form of the condition and can continue to become chronic.
What are the Allergic Contact Dermatitis Symptoms?
The severity of the reaction can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity to the allergen, the amount of exposure, and the duration of exposure.
Itchy Red Skin
Allergic contact dermatitis typically causes the skin to itch. Lighter skin can turn red, while darker skin can turn dark brown, purple, or grey.
Burning and Stinging Sensation
In addition to itching, some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation at the site of the reaction.
Blistering and Rashes
In more severe cases, allergic contact dermatitis can cause blisters and an itchy rash on the skin.
Dry, Flaky, or Cracked Skin
As the skin becomes inflamed and irritated, it may become dry, flaky, or cracked, making it more vulnerable to infections or other skin conditions.
Swelling and Pain
In some cases, the affected area may become swollen and painful, particularly if the reaction is severe or the skin has been repeatedly exposed to the allergen.
Diagnosing Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis involves thoroughly examining the affected skin and reviewing the individual’s medical history, including any known allergies and recent exposures to potential allergens.
Patch testing may be performed to confirm an allergic reaction. Patch tests can confirm delayed allergic reactions, which can develop over several days. During a patch test, small amounts of common allergens are applied to the skin, typically on the back, and observed for any signs of a reaction over 48 to 96 hours.
Treatment Options for Allergic Contact Dermatitis
The choice of treatment for allergic contact dermatitis depends on the severity of the reaction, the location of the affected skin, and the individual’s medical history and preferences.
Avoidance of Allergens
The most effective treatment for allergic contact dermatitis is identifying and avoiding the known allergen causing the flare-up. This may involve making changes to personal care products, clothing, or work materials.
Topical Corticosteroid Creams and Ointments
Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed to help reduce inflammation, itching, and redness associated with allergic contact dermatitis. These creams and ointments should be applied to the affected areas as directed by a healthcare provider for the best results.
Oral Antihistamines
Oral antihistamines can help relieve an itchy skin rash and other allergy symptoms associated with allergic contact dermatitis. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system during an allergic reaction.
Ultraviolet Light Therapy
In some cases, ultraviolet (UV) light therapy may be recommended to help calm the skin by suppressing the immune response. This treatment involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of UV light under medical supervision.
Phototherapy
Phototherapy is another treatment option that uses specific wavelengths of light to help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin. This treatment is typically reserved for more severe cases of allergic contact dermatitis that have not responded to other treatments and is often combined with other treatments.
Immunosuppressant Medications
In severe cases of allergic contact dermatitis, immunosuppressant medications may be prescribed to help suppress the immune system’s response to the allergen. These medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider and may have potential side effects.
Allergy Shots
Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, may be recommended for patients with severe allergic contact dermatitis that have not responded to other treatments. This treatment involves injecting small amounts of the allergen into the body to help the immune system build tolerance over time. Allergy shots may help reduce the severity of allergic reactions and the need for medications.
Preventative Measures for Avoiding Allergic Contact Dermatitis
While it can be challenging to completely avoid all allergens, there are some preventative measures that can help reduce the risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis:
- Identifying and avoiding known allergens
- Using hypoallergenic personal care products
- Wearing gloves when handling potential irritants, such as cleaning products or certain metals
- Washing hands thoroughly after coming into contact with potential allergens
- Applying a barrier cream to protect the skin from potential irritants
If you suspect you have allergic contact dermatitis, the physicians at Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy in New Jersey and Philadelphia can help you identify the cause and provide the appropriate treatment.
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