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- Presentation
Plant Dermatoses and Plant Extracts in Dermatology
Description
The presentation by Callie Bergen from Indiana University School of Medicine focuses on plant dermatoses and extracts used in dermatology. It begins with an exploration of immunologic and non-immunologic mechanisms behind dermatoses caused by plant exposure, with examples like immunologic contact urticaria, which can arise from food allergies, and non-immunologic contact urticaria caused by plant toxins. Bergen illustrates various reaction patterns including mechanical irritant dermatitis from thorns, chemical irritant dermatitis from plants like dumb cane, and phytophotodermatitis from plants containing sorrelins that react to sunlight. She emphasizes the significance of plant-induced dermatoses, citing the increasing popularity of house plants and gardening during the pandemic. Bergen also discusses therapeutic applications of plant extracts, stressing the importance of understanding their efficacy and safety due to the prevalence of alternative medicine. She highlights extracts like arnica, bromelain, rutin, ginkgo biloba, and bacuchiol, noting their potential benefits for conditions such as bruising, inflammation, and hair loss. Additionally, essential oils are addressed, noting their growing popularity, but also warning about the risk of irritation or toxicity. Bergen concludes by advising awareness on the therapeutic uses and risks of both plant extracts and oils in treating dermatological issues.
View moreConclusions
- Plant dermatoses are underdiagnosed, yet common due to increased exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic and the popularity of houseplants.
- Immunologic contact urticaria is predominantly caused by workplace exposures to plants, primarily affecting those with existing dermatoses.
- Food-related contact urticaria occurs due to cross-reactivity between pollens and fresh fruits or vegetables, with symptoms often mitigated by cooking.
- Non-immunologic contact urticaria results from toxin-mediated reactions and includes painful conditions from plants such as stinging nettle and certain trees.
- Mechanical irritant dermatitis is caused by injury from plant thorns and spines, which may lead to secondary infections.
- Chemical irritant dermatitis from plants often involves calcium oxalate, which can cause significant oral and skin reactions mainly in children and pets.
- Phytophotodermatitis is a phototoxic reaction in which plants containing psoralens cause skin damage when exposed to sunlight.
- Allergic contact dermatitis, particularly from plants like poison ivy and chrysanthemums, is the most prevalent plant-related skin condition observed.
- The use of plant extracts in dermatology shows promise, with certain extracts like arnica and rutin being studied for their efficacy in treating skin conditions.
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