Contact dermatitis Flashcards
What is contact dermatitis?
A skin reaction caused by an external agent
What is irritant contact dermatitis?
Direct toxicity by an agent
What is allergic contact dermatitis?
A delayed hypersensitivity reaction that requires prior sensitisation to an allergen
What is the presentation of contact dermatitis?
Erythema
Pruritis
Burning
Vesicles
What features are more common in irritant contact dermatits?
Burning
Acute onset
Slow to resolve
What features are more common in allergic contact dermatitis?
Pruritis
Vesicles
24-72 hour onset
Resolves within a few days
What is the first line investigation for contact dermatitis?
Skin patch testing
What is the first line management of irritant contact dermatitis?
Avoidance of irritants
Skin emollients
What is the second line management of irritant contact dermatitis?
Topical corticosteroids - hydrocortisone, betamethasone
What is the first line management of allergic contact dermatitis?
Avoidance of allergen
Topical corticosteroids
What is the second line management of allergic contact dermatitis?
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus)
What is the third line management of allergic contact dermatitis?
Oral corticosteroids
Phototherapy
Immunosuppressants
