DERMATITIS

The terms eczema and dermatitis are often used interchangeably to describe the same condition. Dermatitis is characterized by a rash, dryness of skin, itching, and redness of skin. The symptoms of dermatitis occur due to the over production of damaging inflammatory skin cells and continue to worsen as a result of certain factors in the environment.

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

Toxicodendron or Rhus Dermatitis

Toxicodendron dermatitis, also called Allergic phytodermatitis or Rhus dermatitis is an allergic contact dermatitis that occurs from exposure to members of the plant genus Toxicodendron. In North America , this includes poison ivy, poison oak, and, much less frequently, poison sumac. Usually the skin is involved; however, the eyes, airway, and lungs may be involved if exposed to smoke from burning plants. In susceptible individuals, lesions generally appear within 12-24 hours, although they have been noted to arise earlier. New lesions may continue to appear for up to 2-3 weeks.