Oral desensitization therapy for poison ivy urushiol contact allergy: A systematic review

Oral desensitization is a promising approach to reduce the frequency and severity of allergic contact dermatitis reactions to poison ivy. Rhus dermatitis, characterized by itching, redness, and blistering, can appear up to 3 weeks postexposure in first-time sufferers and within 1 to 2 days in previously sensitized individuals. Bentoquatam cream can serve as a barrier to protect the skin from urushiol resin but must be applied prior to plant contact. Current treatments focus on symptom relief and managing inflammation with topical therapies such as calamine lotion and corticosteroids.

We conducted a systematic review identifying studies that assessed oral desensitization for poison ivy. Eligible studies included human participants receiving small oral doses of urushiol, delivered in liquid or tablet formulations, to induce immune tolerance.

Six studies involving 410 participants met inclusion criteria. Most studies reported promising results with minimal adverse effects. Reported side effects included rash, pruritus ani, and flushing.

Oral desensitization may reduce the severity and incidence of poison ivy reactions, particularly in individuals at high risk of exposure. However, the limited number of studies and sample sizes highlight the need for further research to establish efficacy and safety.