About Allergies: Poison Oak, Poison Ivy and Poison Sumac

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Allergies Allergies Symptoms / Diagnosis Treatment Coping From Daniel More, MD, your Guide to Allergies Plants from the Toxicodendron family are the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis, and include poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Coming into contact with these plants can cause a rash consisting of a linear, or streak-like, group of itchy blisters or bumps. The chemicals released from the plants, called urushiols, cause the itchy rash. Urushiol can be carried on the fur of animals, garden tools, sports equipment and clothing. The smoke from burning Toxicodendron leaves can also carry urushiol, and can result in inflammation in the lungs if inhaled. Patch testing is not necessary for Toxicodendron plants, since most people would have a positive test and the diagnosis is made clinically. Treatment involves avoidance of exposure to these plants, and the use of topical steroids to reduce the rash and itching. Is There a Cure for Poison Oak Allergy? Urushiol, oil found on poison oak leaves, causes allergic contact dermatitis, which is not caused by allergic antibodies like true allergic reactions. Therefore, allergy shots... Food Allergies and Poison Oak and Ivy Allergic reactions can occur with any food, but mangoes are unique in that they belong to the plant family that also contains poison oak, poison ivy and poison sumac. Contact with the skin from mangoes, such as with eating a mango like an apple, can result in contact dermatitis around the mouth. Other Common Causes of Contact Dermatitis Along with the evaluation for contact dermatitis, which includes patch testing, a person's history of exposure to various chemicals can help to determine the cause of the rash. The most common patch test performed in the United States is the TRUE test, and is the only test FDA approved for the diagnosis of contact dermatitis. Allergies Ads Poison Oak Treatment Allergy Symptoms Allergy Treatment Skin Allergies JEWELWEED Poison Ivy Featured Articles Allergies in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Drug and Latex Allergies Insect Allergies Anaphylaxis Allergy Shots and Drops (Immunotherapy) Alternative Therapies in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergies   More from About.com Plan a Unique Vegas Wedding The minister, music and champagne are just the beginning -- why not get married aboard a helicopter or have a pirate swing in to deliver your rings? Arrrr! More> Join About.com's User Panel! Share your opinions and help us make About.com more relevant, informative and enjoyable to use. More> This newsletter is written by: Daniel More, MD Allergies Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Allergies newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2010 About.com   Must Reads What are Allergies? Symptoms of Allergies Diagnosis of Allergies Treatment of Allergies Preventing Allergies Advertisement