The term "dermatitis" describes an inflammatory response of the
skin, caused by contact with allergens or irritants, exposure to
sunlight, or by poor circulation, even stress. An example of
contact dermatitis is the reaction of a sensitive person's skin to
poison ivy, oak or sumac. Contact with these plants, which contain
a chemical called urushiol, produces an itchy rash, redness,
blisters and scaling. AVOID SCRATCHING. Scratching the rash may
spread the inflammation, lead to infection and even leave scars.
Review Date: 11/01/2009
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
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