Quantcast This image displays a rash with a linear distribution typical of poison ivy. This image displays the line-like configuration of the inflamed skin lesions typical of poison ivy. This image displays allergic contact dermatitis due to exposure to poison ivy. The linear streaks seen near the third finger are characteristic of allergic contact dermatitis from a plant - in this case poison ivy. The irregular bumps of early poison ivy dermatitis may resemble acne when on the face. This image displays the poison ivy allergen on the face. Poison ivy often causes facial swelling and "weepy" skin lesions. This image displays the grouping of three leaves with irregular edges typical of poison ivy. This image displays the grouping of three leaves with irregular edges typical of poison ivy. This image displays the poison oak plant, which, like poison ivy, has 3 leaves. Unlike poison ivy, however, the poison oak plant typically looks more like a shrub and has leaves that resemble an oak tree's leaves. Poison sumac has between 7 and 13 leaves on each branch of the plant. Poison sumac can be differentiated from nonpoisonous types of sumac by the location of the fruit on the plant, with the fruit of the poisonous plant growing between the leaf and the branch, opposed to the ends of the branches.
Advertisement
Top Background Graphic
Contact Us | Newsletter Sign-up
Text Size SmallText Size MediumText Size Large
VisualDxHealth - Your guide to a clear picture of health
Health ToolsHealth TopicsDisease ListWidgetsFor Doctors

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac:
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Left Nav Bottom
Try our Disease Finder
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Picture of Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac: This image displays a rash with a linear distribution typical of poison ivy. Divider line
This image displays a rash with a linear distribution typical of poison ivy.
left arrow
right arrow
Overview
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac dermatides are all an allergic reaction to the oil found on the leaves and in the stems and roots of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac plants (of the Rhus genus). The allergy starts after repeated exposure to the plant and may occur at any age. People usually develop an itchy rash of raised bumps (papules) and blisters in the affected areas.
  • Itching can be intense, and scratching may break the skin, resulting in bacterial infection.
  • Scratching does not spread lesions. Rather, the lesions with the most exposure appear first, and then, as the allergic reaction (immune response) increases, lesions with less exposure begin to appear.
  • Skin lesions usually begin to appear 48 hours after exposure.
Last Modified: 25 Aug 2008

Next: Who's At Risk

HON CODE Seal. Accredited 3/2007
We comply with HONcode standards
for health information
verify here

Advertise With Us | About Us | Site Map | Disclaimer | Link to Us

Copyright © 2006-2008 Logical Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

The data contained in the VisualDxHealth™ Worldwide Web pages such as text, images, and graphics are for informational purposes only. The data is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment. Please see our disclaimer.