Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026
08:02
A Mouse Ear Model for Allergic Contact Dermatitis Evaluation
Published on: March 24, 2023
Persistent photosensitivity after allergic contact dermatitis to epoxy resin
Tiffany Kwok1, Cheryl F Rosen, Frances J Storrs
1Division of Dermatology and Cutaneous Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Dermatitis : Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug
|May 14, 2013
Summary
Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to epoxy resin can lead to persistent photosensitivity. This study highlights the link between epoxy allergy and increased sun sensitivity, even years after initial exposure.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Allergology
- Photobiology
Background:
- Persistent photosensitivity is a rare but significant complication following allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).
- ACD to epoxy resin has been infrequently associated with photosensitivity.
Observation:
- Five patients with occupational epoxy resin exposure developed ACD followed by photodistributed eczematous eruptions.
- Symptoms of photosensitivity emerged months to years after ACD onset or concurrently in some cases.
Findings:
- All patients tested positive for epoxy resin allergy via patch testing.
- Phototesting revealed reduced minimal erythema dose to UVA and UVB in affected individuals.
- Photosensitivity persisted for at least two years, with limited resolution upon allergen avoidance.
Implications:
- ACD to epoxy resin should be considered a potential trigger for persistent photosensitivity.
- This association underscores the importance of thorough dermatological evaluation in patients with unexplained photosensitivity.
- Understanding the mechanisms linking epoxy allergy and photosensitivity may inform future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Drug Toxicity: Allergic Reactions
Drug-related allergies are immune-mediated responses triggered by the administration of pharmacological agents. These hypersensitivity reactions are classified based on the immune mechanisms involved. The four primary types—Type I, II, III, and IV—are mediated by different immunological pathways and exhibit distinct clinical manifestations.Type I Hypersensitivity/ IgE-Mediated Reactions: Immunoglobulin E (IgE) immediately mediates Type I hypersensitivity reactions. Upon initial exposure to a...
01:30Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity, also known as a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, is a condition where the body's immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance. Such substances, that cause hypersensitivity are referred to as an allergen, could be something typically harmless to most people, like pollen or certain foods.
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
01:30Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction mediated by Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. When IgE binds to allergens, it triggers the release of mediators– histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from mast cells and basophils. These mediators cause vasodilation, edema, and inflammation, leading to various symptoms.The primary allergens causing anaphylaxis include food items (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), drugs (e.g., penicillin, asparaginase, corticotropin, heparin),...
01:29Hypersensitivity Reactions: Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions
Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity (DTH), or Type IV hypersensitivity, is a cell-mediated immune response. It occurs when T cells, rather than antibodies, mediate a reaction to specific antigens. It is characterized by a delayed onset (1-2 days) and involves the recruitment of macrophages to the inflammation site.The initiation of a DTH response begins with the sensitization of T cells. During this phase, which lasts at least 1-2 weeks, antigen-specific T cells are activated, clonally expanded, and...
02:06Allergic Reactions
Overview
01:19Hypersensitivity Reactions: Immune-Complex Reactions
Type III hypersensitivity reactions occur when antigen–antibody complexes form and activate the complement system. Normally, these complexes help the clearance of antigens by phagocytes and red blood cells. However, when large numbers of immune complexes are present, they can deposit in tissues—particularly in the walls of blood vessels—leading to inflammation and tissue injury. These deposits trigger complement activation and neutrophil recruitment, resulting in serum sickness, a systemic...