Ihoreaktio

Ihoreaktio is a Finnish term meaning a skin reaction or cutaneous response to an external or internal stimulus. It describes changes in skin appearance or sensation such as redness, swelling, itching, blistering, scaling or pain that arise when the skin responds to physical, chemical, infectious, immunologic or drug-related triggers.

Common causes include contact dermatitis (allergic or irritant), drug eruptions, atopic dermatitis flares, photodermatitis, insect bites, infections (bacterial, viral, fungal), and autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis. Occupational and environmental exposures, cosmetics, topical medications and systemic drugs are frequent precipitants.

Clinical presentation varies by cause and severity. Localized reactions may present as erythema, papules or vesicles; widespread reactions can include urticaria or generalized exanthems. Chronic or repeated exposure may lead to lichenification, hyperpigmentation or secondary infection.

Diagnosis is based on patient history, physical examination and, when indicated, patch testing, skin biopsy, laboratory tests or cultures to identify infectious agents. Management focuses on removing or avoiding the trigger, symptomatic relief with emollients, topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors, oral antihistamines for pruritus, and systemic therapy for severe or widespread reactions. Referral to a dermatologist is recommended for persistent, severe or unclear cases.

Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and timely intervention; many contact or allergic reactions resolve with avoidance and treatment, while chronic inflammatory or autoimmune conditions may require long-term management. Preventive measures include skin protection, hypoallergenic products and workplace controls.