Airborne contact dermatitis is a condition marked by inflammation of the skin, predominantly affecting exposed areas such as the face. This inflammation arises from particles suspended in the air, encompassing a range of substances from fibers and dust to plant materials and various gases.

The identification of airborne contact dermatitis hinges on several key factors:

1. The presence of a volatile or airborne agent responsible for the condition.

2. The clinical manifestation observed on the patient.

3. The patient’s detailed medical history.

4. Results from patch testing.

Various forms of airborne contact dermatitis exist, including irritant, allergic, phototoxic, and photoallergic types. This condition can also manifest in several other skin presentations such as urticaria, acneiform reactions, and erythema multiforme-like reactions, among others.

Individuals from numerous occupational sectors, particularly those with high exposure to known allergens, are frequently affected by airborne contact dermatitis. Industries such as painting, construction, healthcare, and agriculture are common environments where workers might encounter airborne irritants or allergens. Additionally, a personal history of atopic conditions like atopic dermatitis can increase susceptibility to this form of dermatitis.

The sources of airborne contact dermatitis are manifold and can be either occupational or non-occupational. Airborne allergens, for instance, encompass a wide variety of substances including preservatives found in paints, components in plastics, rubbers, glues, and various plant materials. Additionally, airborne irritants like fiberglass or pesticides, as well as photoallergic reactions triggered by certain drugs or substances, can contribute to the condition.

Airborne contact dermatitis typically presents symmetrically, primarily affecting the face, neck, upper chest, and forearms, though in some instances, covered areas can also be impacted due to trapped airborne particles. Symptoms commonly include itching, burning, or stinging sensations, with the physical presentation ranging from scaly erythematous macules to plaques, and sometimes pustular rashes due to secondary bacterial infection.

Diagnosing airborne contact dermatitis is complex and relies on a thorough clinical history, understanding the timeline of symptom development, analyzing occupational and non-occupational exposures, and observing the distribution and morphology of the rash. Patch testing and photopatch testing are valuable tools in the diagnostic process.

Differentiating airborne contact dermatitis from similar conditions is crucial, and it should be distinguished from other forms of dermatitis such as non-airborne irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, systemic contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis, among others.

Treatment strategies are tailored to the specific cause and include efforts to reduce or eliminate exposure to the causative agent, which may necessitate changes in occupation or residence. Topical treatments like emollients and corticosteroids are commonly used, and in more severe cases, systemic treatments such as steroids, azathioprine, or methotrexate may be prescribed.

The impact of airborne contact dermatitis on a patient’s quality of life can be significant, with recovery often hinging on avoiding further exposure. In severe or chronic cases, immunosuppression might be required, highlighting the importance of early identification and management of this multifaceted dermatological condition.