Premium
Toxicodendron dermatitis in the UK
Author(s) -
Walker S. L.,
Lear J. T.,
Beck M. H.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
international journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.677
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-4632
pISSN - 0011-9059
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-4632.2006.02825.x
Subject(s) - medicine , contact dermatitis , dermatology , allergic contact dermatitis , rash , traditional medicine , allergy , immunology
Background We present two cases of Toxicodendron dermatitis, one acquired in the United States but presenting in the United Kingdom (UK), the other a recurrent dermatitis following importation of the plant to the UK. Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac are native to North America and belong to the genus Toxicodendron . This group of plants is of interest to the dermatologist because they contain a mixture of potent sensitisers which cause a severe allergic contact dermatitis. Conclusions The dermatitis can present to the dermatologist in Europe after an individual has been in contact with the plant whilst visiting an endemic area. The plants have the potential to grow in Europe and it is therefore possible for an individual to be sensitised and subsequently to develop the rash without leaving the continent.