Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

Toxicodendron Dermatitis: Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

2006; Elsevier BV; Volume: 17; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1580/pr31-05.1

1545-1534

Aaron C. Gladman,

Insect and Pesticide Research

The Toxicodendrons plants—poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac—are found throughout the United States, southern Canada, and northern Mexico, and are commonly encountered by outdoor workers and travelers. The allergic contact dermatitis from these plants most commonly presents with a linear, erythematous, papulovesicular rash and associated pruritis and weeping. Recognition and avoidance are the most important preventative measures. Prophylactic barrier creams should be considered in severely sensitive individuals or those with occupational exposure. Immediate use of water and mild soap, or of a commercially available postexposure solvent within a few hours, can decrease or prevent clinical symptoms. Antihistamines and topical therapy with bland shake lotions help to control symptoms. Topical steroids and antibiotics should generally be avoided. One to 2 mg per kg per day of systemic corticosteroids for 14 to 21 days can provide significant relief in more severe cases. Inadequate doses or courses of steroids can cause rebound dermatitis, but persistent or recurrent cases should prompt investigation of repeated exposure from contaminated clothing or equipment.