Allergic Contact Dermatitis

What does Allergic Contact Dermatitis Look Like?

Discovering the Cause

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

This is caused by reaction to substances called allergens that come into contact with your skin. In susceptible people these substances cause itchy red rashes known as allergic contact dermatitis.

What does Allergic Contact Dermatitis Look Like?

In the earliest phase in severe cases, the skin gets red, itchy and swollen and develops tiny blisters. In the chronic or later phase, with continued exposure to an allergen the skin may darken and become leathery and cracked. Allergic contact dermatitis can be difficult to distinguish from other rashes.

Discovering the Cause

Dr. Darling will evaluate the substances your skin encounters at work and at home to try and identify the allergen. Sometimes the cause of the rash may not be identified through history and physical exam. Dr. Darling may want to perform a Patch Test. Patch tests are a safe and easy way to detect contact allergens. Small amounts of possible allergens are applied to the skin and removed 2 days later. A positive allergy test usually shows up at that time.