Contact Dermatitis

Question 1

What is allergic contact dermatitis?

Answer 1

An immunologic cell mediated response to an allergen

Question 2

How long does the allergic contact prices take?

Answer 2

5-25 days

Question 3

What does allergic contact dermatitis look like?

Answer 3

Asymmetrical or unilateral distribution usually poorly demarcated

Erythema, vesicles, severe oedema

Question 4

How would you diagnose allergic contact dermatitis?

Answer 4

1. Clinical symptoms
2. Patch testing

Question 5

What are typical allergens?

Answer 5

1. Nickel
2. Cobalt
3. Lanolin
4. Plants
5. Epoxy resin adhesives
6. Topical medication
7. Latex

Question 6

What is irritant contact dermatitis?

Answer 6

Non immunological response to a skin irritant

Agent penetrates the stratum corneum

Question 7

What is irritant contact dermatitis like?

Answer 7

Acute - painful, weepy, vesicular

Chronic - dry, erythema tops cracked lichenified skin

Question 8

What are typical irritants?

Answer 8

1. Water
2. Soaps and detergents
3. Reducing and oxidising agents
4. Powders dust and soil
5. Oils
6. Acids and alkalis
7. Solvents and abrasives

Question 9

How do you manage contact dermatitis?

Answer 9

1. Identification of cause
2. Prevention - skincare, education and protective measures
3. Treatment - emollient and soap subs, topical corticosteroids and treating any secondary infection