Allergic contact dermatitis

The mainstay of therapy is the identification of the causative allergen(s) by patch testing. Once allergens are positively identified, the patient should be given written information on all these chemicals including synonyms, typical sources, avoidance of exposure and substitution.

In acute allergic contact dermatitis, appropriate therapy comprises

• topical corticosteroids and in severe cases


• systemic corticosteroids

• emollients
  
• topical corticosteroids and
  
• tar preparations may be beneficial