Abstract
Contact dermatitis (CD) is a dermatosis caused by exogenous agents ocurring in both children and adults. They are caused by contact of irritant agents and/or allergens with the skin and possible influence of some other contributary factors.
Clinical picture is variable. Besides typical lesions of eczema, non-eczematous lesions appear (urticarial, lichenoid, granulomatous, disorders of pigmentation and other).
Final diagnosis requires synthesis of detailed history (including occupational and non-occupational habits), clinical picture, examination (patch tests, prick tests and other), and evaluation of their clinical relevance. CD is treated by topical treatment, mostly topical corticosteroids in suitable vehicle corresponding to the clinical stage of the disease.
Prevention of CD is based on complete removal of all hazardous substances, especially proven contact allergens, skin protection during and after work, careful occupation choice with regard to personal history and presence of other dermatoses (e. g. atopic eczema).