Health's Book

Definition

Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact with an irritating substance.

Symptoms

* Itching (pruritus) of the skin in exposed areas
* Skin redness or inflammation in the exposed area
* Tenderness of the skin in the exposed area
* Localized swelling of the skin
* Warmth of the exposed area (may occur)
* Skin lesion or rash at the site of exposure
o Lesions of any type: redness, rash, papules (pimple-like), vesicles, and bullae (blisters)
o May involve oozing, draining, or crusting
o May become scaly, raw, or thickened