Dr. David Nieves
What does the oil found in poison
ivy plants, a woman’s perfume and preservatives found in deodorant have in
common? All are possible agents triggering contact dermatitis.
Skin inflammation caused by contact
with offending agents is called contact dermatitis. There are two forms of
contact dermatitis: allergic and irritant. Allergic contact dermatitis is a
reaction of the immune system to an allergen such as the three types of agents
described above. It typically occurs 1-2 days after exposure.
Irritant dermatitis is inflammation
of the skin caused by physical disruption brought on by contact with an outside
substance. Examples include contact with acid or long-term exposure to wet
diapers.
Contact dermatitis causes the areas
of skin which came into contact with the inciting allergen or irritant to
become red, dry and itchy. In many cases, contact dermatitis is a short-term
phenomenon. Treatment includes moisturizer, topical steroid creams and
avoidance of exposure to the source of the reaction.
Unfortunately, many times the source
of the reaction is unknown, making it difficult to avoid future exposure. Even
if the affected individual changes his or her personal care products, the
problem may persist if an allergen is used as a common ingredient. Allergens
causing allergic contact dermatitis can be identified with patch testing.
Patch testing is a noninvasive
procedure in which a collection of allergen samples is applied to the patient’s
back on a Monday, removed on Wednesday and with final interpretation of the
application site on Friday. Windsor Dermatology uses a large inventory of
allergen samples to perform testing, increasing the likelihood that the
causative allergen or irritant can be found.
We have been able to help patients
demystify what is causing their contact dermatitis over the years, helping them
move on with their lives in comfort. In one memorable instance, a man had suffered
from severe, chronic hand rashes for many years. Patch testing revealed he was
allergic to a chemical used in the soap in the lavatory of his workplace. Now
he brings his own supply of allergen-free soap to work and the problem has been
solved.
In another case, a woman with
chronic rashes on her eyelids had tried numerous brands of makeup, yet her rash
persisted. Patch testing identified she was allergic to the rubber in her
makeup removal sponge. Avoidance of this sponge helped to rapidly clear up the
irritation.
Another woman suffered for years
with itchy, dry lips despite frequently moisturizing with lip moisturizer. She
was found to be allergic to a sunscreen used in the particular ChapStick
product she was using. She switched to one which did not contain sunscreen and
her inflammation disappeared.
Have you
experienced repeated rashes on your skin? You can put an end to your discomfort
by scheduling an appointment at Windsor Dermatology. Please call us at 609-443-4500.
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