Health Conditions

Allergic contact eczema occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen, either directly or indirectly, and the individual's immune system reacts to dispel it. Generally, repeated exposure to the allergen is necessary for the individual to develop an immune reaction. Examples of allergens that may cause allergic contact eczema include clothing (or the button and zippers on them), jewelry, perfume, hand and bathing soaps, household cleaners, laundry detergents, rubber gloves, and poison ivy or oak-agents that can also cause irritant contact eczema. Some people appear to be genetically predisposed to develop allergic contact eczema. Others may have triggers that cause the allergic reactions to flare up. Some triggers that have been found are UV light (sunlight, tanning beds) and perspiration. This type of eczema is characterized by local inflammation of the skin with itching, pain, redness, swelling, and formation of small blisters. If allergic contact eczema is expected, a patch test can be done to identify the cause. Strips of tape containing approximately 25 to 150 types of allergens are placed on the person?s back for 2 days and if a small red spot is present on the skin then the substance is a possible allergen to the person. The individual is then checked after another 2 days to look for delayed reactions.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.