Poison Ivy - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Definition Poison ivy is a plant in the family Anacardiaceae. The name is often spelled Poison-ivy to indicate that it is not a true Ivy or Hedera. It is a woody vine that is well-known for its ability to produce urushiol, a skin irritant that causes an itching rash for most people, technically known as urushiol-induced contact dermatitis. In extreme cases, corticosteroids can be used to treat rashes. Approximately 85 percent of the population will develop an allergic reaction if exposed to poison ivy, oak or sumac, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Nearly one-third of forestry workers and firefighters who battle forest fires in California, Oregon and Washington develop rashes or lung irritations from contact with poison oak, which is the most common of the three in those states. Keep in mind that the resin may last for long periods on contaminated clothing, pets, tools, shoes, and other surfaces. These contaminated items can cause future rashes long after the initial exposure. Causes
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