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Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis in Child
See also in: External and Internal Eye
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis in Child

See also in: External and Internal Eye
Contributors: David O'Connell MD, Susan Burgin MD, Craig N. Burkhart MD, Dean Morrell MD
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Synopsis

Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are the common names for Toxicodendron dermatitis (formerly Rhus dermatitis). This is a contact dermatitis resulting from a type IV hypersensitivity reaction in sensitized individuals to the oleoresin urushiol. Urushiol is found in most parts of the plants from this genus, which is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. The Toxicodendron genus is pervasive throughout the continental United States, southern Canada, and Mexico and is mostly found below 5000 feet of altitude. It can also be found in Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. It is estimated that up to 75% of the North American population is sensitized, and the condition has no predilection based on age, sex, race / ethnicity, or skin type. Occupational and recreational exposures are prevalent.

These species show regional variations in the nature of the plant including growth pattern, leaf characteristics, and flowering.

After exposure, the rash begins to appear within 1-2 days in previously sensitized individuals; in the newly sensitized, it may be delayed 2-3 weeks. As the resin is very stable, occult contact may occur from contaminated clothing, gear, or vegetation, even after months have elapsed.

Codes

ICD10CM:
L23.7 – Allergic contact dermatitis due to plants, except food

SNOMEDCT:
200823002 – Allergic dermatitis due to poison ivy

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Last Reviewed:03/29/2023
Last Updated:04/06/2023
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Patient Information for Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis in Child
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Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis in Child
See also in: External and Internal Eye
A medical illustration showing key findings of Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis : Erythema, Eyelids, Linear configuration, Scattered many, Tense vesicles, Arms, Legs
Clinical image of Poison ivy, oak, sumac dermatitis - imageId=113052. Click to open in gallery.  caption: 'Vesicular, erythematous plaques, some linear, and scattered vesicles on the arm.'
Vesicular, erythematous plaques, some linear, and scattered vesicles on the arm.
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