What is Contact Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin resulting from contact with an external
substanceThere are two main types of Contact Dermatitis:
Irritant Allergic
Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)
• Irritants cause approx 80% of cases • This is caused by a direct contact with an
irritant substance for a significant time • People suffering with other ‘atopic’ conditions
(e.g. eczema, asthma) are more likely to develop ICD
Causes of ICD
• Common irritants: soap, detergents, food, cement
• Wet-work: e.g. hairdressing, cleaning, metal working, building site work, horticultural work
Irritant Contact Dermatitis (ICD)
Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD)
• Allergies cause approx 20% of cases • This is caused by hypersensitivity to a
particular substance or group of substances, acting through the body’s immune system
• Previous exposure is required to induce allergy• People suffering with other ‘atopic’ conditions
(e.g. eczema, asthma) are more likely to develop ACD
Causes of ACD
• Common allergens: nickel, fragrances, rubber, some plants, formaldehyde, skin medications (topical corticosteroids), hairdressing chemicals
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Early signs and symptoms
Early signs: • Dryness• Redness• ItchingDeveloping signs: • Scaling and flaking • Cracking and blistering • Pain
Location of Contact Dermatitis and suspicious agents
Location • Eyelids• Earlobes or neck• Forehead & hairline• Face• Underarm• Hands • Waistband• Feet
Suspicious agent • Eye makeup, nail polish • Metal jewellery • Hair colours, shampoos • Cosmetics, deodorants• Gloves• Elastic, nickel in belts
and trouser studs
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