Dermatitis Online Session 2

Early Signs of Contact Dermatitis

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