Kontaktdermatiit

Kontaktdermatiit, commonly referred to as contact dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs after the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. It is non-contagious and typically affects exposed areas such as the hands and face.

There are two main types: irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), caused by direct chemical or physical irritation, and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to an allergen.

Common irritants include soaps, detergents, solvents, acids and alkalis, while common allergens are nickel, fragrances, preservatives, rubber additives, cobalt, chromium, and hair dye components.

In ICD the skin barrier is damaged by the irritant, triggering inflammation. In ACD, sensitized T cells respond to re-exposure, causing itch, redness, swelling and vesicles at the contact site.

Diagnosis is clinical and may be supported by patch testing to identify responsible allergens. Treatment emphasizes avoidance of triggers, regular skin care with emollients, and anti-inflammatory therapy such as topical corticosteroids. Severe cases may require short courses of systemic steroids.

Prevention includes using protective gloves, barrier creams, and proper skin care; educating patients about potential irritants and allergens. Prognosis is generally favorable with removal of triggers, though ACD can recur with re-exposure and some cases become chronic.