Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy or cracked skin rash caused by something that touches the skin. Irritant contact dermatitis, the most common kind among healthcare workers, comes from repeated handwashing, soaps and gloves. Allergic contact dermatitis is an immune reaction to a specific substance, such as a fragrance, preservative or natural rubber latex; poison ivy is a familiar example. Moisturizing regularly and using alcohol-based hand rub instead of frequent soap-and-water washing both help. Persistent cases should be seen by occupational health or a dermatologist. See Skin Care.
Contact Dermatitis
More on glossary
- GlossaryAntimicrobial
- GlossaryAntisepsis
- GlossaryCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- GlossaryChlorhexidine gluconate
- You are hereContact Dermatitis
- GlossaryHand Hygiene
- GlossaryHealthcare-associated Infection (HAI)
- GlossaryMicroorganism
- GlossaryMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
- GlossaryPersonal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- GlossaryTriclosan
- GlossaryWorld Health Organization (WHO)