Allergic contact dermatitis - Anogenital in
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Synopsis
Contact dermatitis presents as either allergic or irritant in etiology. While irritant contact dermatitis represents the direct toxic effect of an offending agent on the skin, allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) represents a delayed-type (type IV) hypersensitivity reaction that occurs when allergens activate antigen-specific T cells in a sensitized individual. Consequently, whereas irritant contact dermatitis can occur after one exposure to the offending agent, ACD typically requires repeat exposures before an allergic response is noted. ACD can occur 24-48 hours after exposure to the offending agent.
ACD can occur in response to topical agents, systemic exposure via ingestion, or innocuous transfer of the culprit agent via the fingertips.
Use of soap, topical anesthetic agents, spermicides, rubber accelerators found in condoms, and topical steroids have all been reported to cause ACD in the genital area. Lipstick-induced penile dermatitis has not been reported but is noted as a theoretical concern for men sensitive to octyl gallate.
Passive transfer of poison ivy resin has been implicated in penile ACD.
Codes
L23.9 – Allergic contact dermatitis, unspecified cause
SNOMEDCT:
40275004 – Contact dermatitis
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Last Updated:02/13/2018
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