Irritant Contact Dermatitis — a Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Irritant contact dermatitis is the most common form of contact dermatitis and the most common occupational skin disease. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the endogenous and exogenous factors that play a role in the pathogenesis of irritant contact dermatitis. RECENT FINDINGS: In conjunction with avoidance of irritants, barrier protection, and regular application of moisturizers, management now emphasizes the importance of primary prevention through educational initiatives in high-risk workplaces. SUMMARY: The diagnosis of irritant contact dermatitis is often difficult, as there is no confirmatory test, and it is often a default diagnosis after allergic contact dermatitis has been excluded. Early recognition, prevention, and treatment are vital in management, especially in the occupational setting.