ALLERGIC CONTACT DERMATITIS AS A CLINICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL PROBLEM DIAGNOSIS PATCH TESTING AND PREVENTION

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common T-cell-mediated inflammatory skin disease  caused by repeated exposure to contact allergens in sensitized individuals. Its clinical  appearance often overlaps with irritant contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infection, and other eczematous disorders, which contributes to delayed  recognition and persistent exposure. This review thesis summarizes current evidence  on pathogenesis, clinical patterns, diagnostic patch testing, major allergens, treatment,  and occupational prevention. Hapten penetration through an impaired epidermal barrier  activates keratinocytes and innate immune pathways, followed by antigen presentation  and allergen-specific T-cell sensitization.