Etiology

  • Irritant: detergents, acids, solvents

  • Allergic (Type IV hypersensitivity): nickel, fragrances, poison ivy

Pathogenesis

  • Irritant: direct skin damage

  • Allergic: T-cell–mediated delayed hypersensitivity reaction

Clinical Features

  • Erythema, vesicles, edema

  • Itching or burning

  • Localized to site of exposure

  • Linear streaks in plant dermatitis

Treatment

  • Identify & avoid trigger

  • Topical steroids

  • Oral steroids for severe widespread cases

  • Emollients