Húðviðbrögð

Húðviðbrögð, often translated as skin reactions or cutaneous reactions, refers to any observable change or response in the skin that occurs due to a stimulus. These stimuli can be internal or external and encompass a wide range of factors.

Common causes of húðviðbrögð include allergic reactions to substances like certain foods, medications, or environmental allergens such as pollen or animal dander. In these cases, the immune system overreacts, leading to symptoms like redness, itching, hives, or swelling. Contact dermatitis is a specific type of allergic or irritant reaction that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a triggering substance.

Non-allergic reactions can also manifest as húðviðbrögð. These might include reactions to heat, cold, friction, or certain chemicals that directly irritate the skin without involving an immune response. Infections, both bacterial and viral, can also cause skin reactions, presenting as rashes, blisters, or sores. Autoimmune conditions can also result in various skin manifestations as the body’s immune system attacks its own skin cells.

The appearance and severity of húðviðbrögð can vary greatly. They can range from mild redness and itching to more severe forms like blistering, peeling, or ulceration. Diagnosis typically involves a review of the patient's history, a physical examination of the affected skin, and sometimes further tests such as allergy testing or skin biopsies to determine the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the specific cause and may involve avoiding the trigger, topical or oral medications, or addressing the underlying medical condition.