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Current Dermatology Reports
Published in: Current Dermatology Reports 1/2017

01-03-2017 | Hospital- based Dermatology (D Kroshinsky, Section Editor)

Contact Dermatitis in the Hospitalized Patient

Authors: Ilka Arun Netravali, Sarina B. Elmariah

Published in: Current Dermatology Reports | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this study is to review the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management strategies for irritant and allergic contact dermatitis (CD) in hospitalized patients.

Recent Findings

Contact dermatitis accounts for 10% of inpatient dermatology consult cases. This high frequency of CD arises because hospitalized patients are exposed to numerous irritants and common allergens as part of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Common triggers include antibiotics, antiseptics, anesthetics, latex, and rubber additives. Hypersensitivity to metals and other materials in cardiac and orthopedic implants has also been reported, and an association between CD and implant failure has been proposed.

Summary

Recognition of CD and identification of the causative agent require a detailed clinical and exposure history, physical exam, and a high degree of clinical suspicion. Timely diagnosis and management are crucial, as they enable symptom relief and improvement in quality of life, and may also positively impact overall health outcomes by reducing associated systemic morbidity.
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Metadata
Title
Contact Dermatitis in the Hospitalized Patient
Authors
Ilka Arun Netravali
Sarina B. Elmariah
Publication date
01-03-2017
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Dermatology Reports / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 2162-4933
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13671-017-0165-x

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