An inflammatory skin condition caused by an immune response to direct contact between the skin and an allergen. It consists of a delayed type of allergic reaction at the affected site with resulting red, swollen, and blistered skin that may itch or leak.
Symptoms of Allergic dermatitis
The following features are indicative of Allergic dermatitis:
red rash on the skin
skin itching
dry skin
cracked skin
scaly skin
bumps
blisters
swelling in the skin
skin burning
skin tenderness
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Common Causes of Allergic dermatitis
The following are the most common causes of Allergic dermatitis:
exposures to even mild irritants such as solvents, rubbing alcohol, bleach, detergents, shampoos, airborne substances, fertilizers and pesticides
exposure to sunlight
exposure to diapers
exposure to baby wipes
exposure to allergens such as nickel, balsam of Peru, formaldehyde
use of certain medicines such as antibiotic creams and oral antihistamines
Risk Factors for Allergic dermatitis
The following factors may increase the likelihood of Allergic dermatitis:
metalworkers
construction workers
agricultural workers
cooks
health care and dental employees
hairdressers
Prevention of Allergic dermatitis
Yes, it may be possible to prevent Allergic dermatitis. Prevention may be possible by doing the following:
wear protective clothing or gloves
use moisturizer
apply a barrier cream or gel
Occurrence of Allergic dermatitis
Number of Cases
The following are the number of Allergic dermatitis cases seen each year worldwide:
Very common > 10 Million cases
Common Age Group
Allergic dermatitis can occur at any age.
Common Gender
Allergic dermatitis can occur in any gender.
Lab Tests and Procedures for Diagnosis of Allergic dermatitis
The following lab tests and procedures are used to detect Allergic dermatitis:
Patch test: To determine the cause of an allergic contact dermatitis
Complications of Allergic dermatitis if untreated
Yes, Allergic dermatitis causes complications if it is not treated. Below is the list of complications and problems that may arise if Allergic dermatitis is left untreated:
bacterial skin infections
Self-care for Allergic dermatitis
The following self-care actions or lifestyle changes may help in the treatment or management of Allergic dermatitis:
Use moisturizer: Helps treating the condition of allergic dermatitis
Avoid scratching: Helps to prevent allergic dermatitis
Apply cool, wet compresses: Helps in protecting the skin and prevent scratching
Time for Treatment of Allergic dermatitis
While time-period of treatment for each patient may vary, below is the typical time-period for Allergic dermatitis to resolve if treated properly under an expert supervision: