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What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis?

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Allergic Contact Dermatitis Definition   by #56153   19 year

Allergic Contact Dermatitis is a form of Eczema. Allergic Contact Dermatitis develops when the body’s immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in earrings, belt buckles and jeans buttons. Reactions can also occur after contact with other substances such as perfumes and rubber.

In order to prevent repeated reactions it is best to prevent contact with anything that you know causes a rash.

An Allergy is condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (eg food or drug). Also known as hypersensitivity.
Any substance that can trigger an allergic reaction is called an allergen.

Examples of allergens include: pollens, dust mite, molds, foods like nuts, eggs, milk, gluten, strawberries, citric fruit, ... People prone to allergies are said to be allergic or atopic.

Allergens cause the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that all of us have in small amounts. Allergic persons, however, produce IgE in abnormally quantities. Normally, this antibody is important in protecting us from parasites, but not from other allergens. During the sensitization period in allergy, IgE is overproduced.

Immunoglobulin E activates special cells called mast cells. These mast cells release chemicals called mediators, such as histamine, the chemical that causes redness and swelling.

The most common allergic conditions include hay fever (allergic rhinitis), asthma, allergic eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), allergic eczema, hives (urticaria), and allergic shock (also called anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock).
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