Toxicodendron Dermatitis: Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by the Toxicodendron (formerly Rhus) species—poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac—affects millions of North Americans every year. In certain outdoor occupations, for example, agriculture and forestry, as well as among many outdoor enthusiasts, Toxicodendron dermatitis presents a significant hazard. This review considers the epidemiology, identification, immunochemistry, pathophysiology, clinical features, treatment, and prevention of this common dermatologic problem. Recent research in prevention is emphasized, and resources to help in the identification of plants are provided in the bibliography. The literature was searched using a MEDLINE query for “Toxicodendron dermatitis,” and the identified article bibliographies were searched as well.