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Abstract

Contact dermatitis is a disorder in which an eczematous reaction occurs in response to exposure to an external agent. This stimulus may act as an irritant, by having a direct noxious effect on the skin, or an allergen, where a type-4 T-cell-mediated hypersensitivity reaction occurs. Both reactions produce an inflammatory response in the skin, resulting in erythema and sometimes vesiculation followed by dryness, lichenification and fissuring. The irritant and allergic types of contact dermatitis can co-exist, so a good history with exploration of occupation and recreational factors is necessary. This article discusses the presentation of contact dermatitis and possible causative factors, and then outlines suitable investigations and management strategies.

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