Introduction
It is known that “allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is caused by a delayed-type hypersensitivity response to contact allergens. The most common symptoms are pruritus, along with burning and stinging”. (Owen et al., 2018.) ICD-10 code: L23.9 Allergic contact dermatitis, unknown cause.
Additional laboratory and diagnostic tests
No additional laboratory or diagnostic testing is needed at this time.
Consults
No consults or referrals are recommended at this time.
Therapeutic modalities
Upon first discovery of the disease, there are several ways one could do to alleviate symptoms. For acute symptoms, cold compresses can help with the itch. For patients with oozing lesions, Burrow’s solution (aluminum triacetate), calamine, and/or oatmeal baths can also be utilized. (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology). Pharmacological treatment includes topical glucocorticosteroids. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (immunomodulators) may be preferred for persistent facial, particularly periocular dermatitis. (Heim et al., 2020).
Health Promotion
Potential risks include outdoor activities, coming to contact with hot water, and usage of perfumed and/or containing common allergens self-care products.
Patient education
ACD is usually caused by natural or allergens of synthetic composition – ranging from poison ivy to formaldehyde. Educating patients on allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) involves assisting the patient in identifying their allergic triggers. Patients must then be provided with practical behavioral modifications to help decrease the inflammatory response of this disease. (Patrick et al., 2020). It is crucial to make the patient understand what behavioral modification they are to make to reduce the risk of coming into contact with an allergen – for instance, they should make sure to patch-test any new skincare products.
Disposition/follow-up instructions
With the use of pharmacological treatment involving steroid medications and antihistamine treatment, the symptoms should be alleviated in a couple of days. In case the reaction worsens, the patients ought to return to the clinic as soon as possible.
References
Contact Dermatitis Overview. (2020). American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Web.
Heim, N. T., et al. (2020). Allergic Contact Dermatitis Medication. Medscape. Web.
Murphy, P. B., et al. (2020). Allergic Contact Dermatitis. StatPearls Publishing.
Owen, J. L., et al. (2018). The Role and Diagnosis of Allergic Contact Dermatitis in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 19(3), 293–302.