Tropical Dermatology

It would appear that Rhus radicans was brought to Australia by ship many years ago and has been cultivated for the beauty of its autumn leaves. It is probable that the different shrubs in Victoria have been deliberately propagated by enthusiastic gardeners who have not realized the potential danger of cutaneous sensitization. The possibility exists that Rhus radicans could be brought by air travelers to the Commonwealth. The increase in smuggling of drugs such as cannabis and heroin has made customs control more strict, however, and it seems unlikely that Rhus radicans could enter the country in this way. Rhus succedaneum has been cultured in Australia for many years and is the more common cause of Rhus dermatitis in Australia.^ As this is a tree and not a shrub like Rhus radicans, it is more easily avoided by the person known to be sensitive. Severe cases of dermatitis due to contact with Rhus succedaneum have been reported in South Australia as well as in the State of Victoria. In the State of South Australia the plant has been withdrawn from general sale.̂ It seems likely that with the increasing knowledge of the presence of Rhus radicans in Australia and the awareness of the potential danger of cutaneous sensitivity, that the problem will be resolved.