The poison ivy picker of Pennypack Park: the continuing saga of poison ivy

Plant exposures: wilderness medicine

This article discusses poisonous plants, the symptoms that might arise if they are ingested, and the treatments that should be administered to patients.

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac dermatitis identification, treatment, and prevention

Allergic contact dermatitis from poison ivy, oak, or sumac is common among people who work or exercise outdoors. The plants, classified in the genus Rhus or Toxicodendron, contain allergens that can cause reactions ranging from mild pruritus to severe urticaria or generalized maculopapular eruptions. Initial management includes cleansing, cold compresses, and, possibly, oral antihistamines for symptomatic relief. Topical corticosteroids are given for localized nonfacial eruptions; systemic corticosteroids are used for severe eruptions. Prevention involves avoiding contact with the plants and washing exposed skin within 2 hours.

Plant-induced dermatitis

Patients with plant-induced dermatitis frequently present to the emergency department. The range of responses varies from irritant to allergic to photo or granulomatous. To a certain extent the clinical presentations will vary; it is important to determine causation because appropriate emergency therapy treatment also will vary. This review considers the most common forms of plant dermatitis and emphasizes advances in the understanding of pathomechanisms and recommended therapy for each type.