Poison ivy dermatitis. Nuances in treatment
P. M. Williford and E. F. Sheretz
Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest University Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC.
Acute allergic contact dermatitis due to poison ivy or poison oak is a
common presenting complaint in the practices of many primary care
physicians. While the clinical features are well described, reported
treatment regimens vary in both topical and systemic therapies. We review
herein the variability of presenting morphologic features of the disease
and common treatment regimens, with attention given to complications of
therapy. We also comment on the correct botanical designation, incidence,
and immune mechanisms of the disease state and review measures to avoid
allergic contact dermatitis due to poison ivy and poison oak.
