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These common substances can actually cause allergies! What are the hidden allergens around you?
Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is an allergic reaction to a specific substance that affects the immune system. Although contact dermatitis can present in many forms, ACD is undoubtedly one of the most common manifestations of immunotoxicity.
This allergic reaction usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours after the patient is exposed to the allergen. It may manifest as redness, itching, swelling, blisters, and peeling of the skin.
The complexity of this allergic reaction is reflected in the fact that it requires multi-level immune regulation and is closely related to the interaction with specific T lymphocyte subtypes.
Common allergens
Allergens that cause headaches for many people include antibiotics, certain metals, cosmetic ingredients, and preservatives in daily necessities. Certain chemicals, such as metals like chromium, cobalt and nicotine, are also major allergy triggers.
The following are common substances that can trigger allergic contact dermatitis:
- Bacitracin: A common topical antibiotic.
- Chromium: A chemical used in leather tanning.
- Gold: Commonly used in jewelry and dental materials.
- Spice mixture: Common additives in food and cosmetics.
Mechanisms of allergic contact dermatitis
The development of ACD is divided into two stages: induction and stimulation. During the induction phase, allergens enter the body and are processed by immune cells, preparing for future allergic reactions.
The stimulation phase is when the individual comes into contact with the allergen again, and specific T cells are activated and respond at the contact site.
Once the human body develops an allergic reaction to an allergen, this sensitivity will most likely last a lifetime.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis usually requires a detailed physical examination and medical history. Sometimes doctors rely on symptoms and the appearance of the rash to confirm the diagnosis. However, for rashes that recur or are difficult to explain, further testing may be necessary.
The most commonly used test is a patch test, which can help determine the specific cause of the allergy. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, patch testing is the gold standard for detecting contact allergens.
Avoiding allergens is the key to alleviating allergy symptoms, and appropriate use of corticosteroid ointments can effectively alleviate symptoms. However, these drugs must be used with caution to avoid skin damage caused by long-term or excessive use.
EpidemiologyThe incidence of allergic contact dermatitis is quite high, affecting up to 20% of the population. Faced with such a high incidence rate, it is particularly important to understand one's own potential allergens.
Studies have shown that people who are sensitive to a certain allergen will also have an increased risk of being sensitive to other allergens, which makes allergic contact dermatitis have a certain genetic tendency.
Everyone may face allergies, but they are unconsciously living with allergens. Have you noticed the potential hidden dangers around you?
