Allergic Contact Dermatitis Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Jul 07, 2022
  • Author: Thomas N Helm, MD; Chief Editor: William D James, MD  more...
  • Print
DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Contact dermatitis from allergy must be differentiated from contact dermatitis due to irritation, as well as other forms of dermatitis. In addition, the specific substance to which the patient is sensitive needs to be identified.

When any type of dermatitis persists and has episodic flares, contact dermatitis should be considered. Contact dermatitis from allergy can mimic dyshidrotic eczema as well as other types of dermatitis. Chronic hand dermatitis is a common problem that often warrants further analysis, and dyshidrotic dermatitis can cause considerable  problems in the workplace.  Almost 35,000 patients filed claims for dyshidrotic eczema in 2018 (61% female; average age of 37 at first diagnosis) with a total direct cost of US $11,738,985. [35]

Differential Diagnoses