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Highlights & Basics
- Poison ivy, oak, and sumac plants (Toxicodendron species) often cause contact dermatitis due to soluble oleoresins (urushiols).
- Contact can result in a severe, itchy dermatitis, which often persists for 10 to 15 days.
- Prevention relies on recognition and avoidance of the plants, but many people are unaware of their appearance.
- Immediate washing of the skin after inadvertent contact may prevent development of the allergic response.
- First-line treatment is corticosteroids: topically for mild-to-moderate cases, and orally for severe reactions. Topical calcineurin inhibitors are an alternative option.
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Citations
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Poisonous plants and work. Aug 2024 [internet publication].[Full Text]
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