Is allergic contact dermatitis being overlooked?

Contact dermatitis is very common and is among the top 20 reasons for a patient to visit a physician. This article reviews the basic features of irritant and allergic contact dermatitis and provides case examples. We emphasize the use of patch testing to diagnose specific allergens in allergic contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is important to recognize since there are prevention and intervention strategies that may be of great help to the patient. Accurate diagnosis and prevention of contact dermatitis would have a positive impact on medical care costs and job productivity.