Systemic contact dermatitis: sometimes it is the food.

Systemic contact dermatitis (SCD) represents a unique pattern of allergic contact dermatitis that may cause a symmetric eruption involving intertriginous skin, genitals, eyelids, and/or hands. Common culprits known to elicit SCD for some patients include preservatives, metals, and fragrances. Certain medications including steroids and antihistamines can cause SCD. For patients who do not improve with skin allergen avoidance alone and who have a pattern of dermatitis suggestive of SCD, counseling on allergen avoidance through oral, parenteral, and inhaled routes is indicated.

Duke Scholars

Author Amber Reck Atwater Dermatology