Contact
dermatitis or contact eczema is an eczema caused by an external
contact between the skin and a trigger. Allergic dermatitis is
caused by cutaneous sensitization to an allergen. The area of the skin in contact with the allergen develops very itchy papules (small solid raised bumps). In severe cases, these papules may extend to other areas of the body, remote from the original area of contact.
Many different allergens may be responsible for contact dermatitis. The following broad classifications can be distinguished:
- Drug-related allergens: ointments or creams containing antibiotics (penicillin, chloramphenicol), or anti-inflammatory products; antiseptic solutions.
- Cosmetic allergens: hygiene products (soaps, shampoos, deodorants, etc.), perfume, hair dye, nail polish.
- Clothing-related allergens: detergents, water softeners, dressings, dyes, accessories (buttons, studs, clasps, etc.) leather, rubber, and jewelry. In the case of buttons on jeans, the eczema is localized below the navel, whilst an allergy to the clasp of a brassiere results in eczema localized to the middle of the back.
- Work-related allergens: cement, products containing chromium (dyes, ink tanning products, paint, etc.), glues, resins, exotic woods.