dermatologic disorders
Contact Dermatitis
Treatment of Contact Dermatitis
Avoidance of offending agents Supportive care (eg, cool compresses, dressings, antihistamines) Corticosteroids (most often topical but sometimes oral) Contact dermatitis is prevented by avoiding contact with the skin irritant or allergen; patients with photosensitive contact dermatitis should avoid exposure to sun. Topical treatment includes cool compresses (saline or Burow solution) and corticosteroids. Patients with mild to moderate ACD are given mid- to high-potency topical corticosteroids (eg,triamcinolone0.1% ointment orbetamethasonevalerate cream 0.1%). Oral corticosteroids (eg,prednisone60 mg once a day for 7 to 14 days) can be used for severe blistering or extensive disease. Systemic antihistamines (eg,hydroxyzine,diphenhydramine) help relieve pruritus; antihistamines with low anticholinergic potency, such as low-sedating H1 blockers, are not as effective. Wet-to-dry dressings can soothe oozing blisters, dry the skin, and promote healing. 