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Contact dermatitis

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Contact dermatitis

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High Yield Notes
6 pages
Flashcards

Contact dermatitis

9 flashcards
Questions

USMLE® Step 1 style questions USMLE

2 questions
Preview

A 40-year-old woman presents to the office because of a rash and burning sensation on her hands. It started two days ago and is scaly and nonpruritic. She works as a gardener but recently started a new part-time house cleaning service near her neighborhood. Past medical history is significant for a streptococcal throat infection three weeks ago, treated with oral penicillin. She has taken warfarin regularly for the past three years after undergoing prosthetic aortic valve replacement. Family history is significant for atopic dermatitis in her mother. Vitals are within normal limits. Physical examination findings are shown.


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Which of the following factors most likely triggered this patient’s skin condition?  

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Summary

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin rash that occurs when your skin comes into contact with an allergen or irritant. It is considered a type IV (delayed) hypersensitivity reaction, and commonly associated allergens include perfumes, cosmetics, latex, detergents, and plants such as poison ivy. Common symptoms include skin redness, swelling, itching, blisters, and dry skin. In severe cases, contact dermatitis can lead to cracks in the skin that may become infected.