Chapter 19, Problem 4R

Summary Introduction

To review:

The development of contact sensitivity to poison oak.

Introduction:

The allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed type hypersensitivity. It is called so because of the occurrence of allergic reactions about 24 to 48 hours after exposure to the antigen. Delayed type hypersensitivity is a T-cell dependent immunity. When the poison ivy comes in contact to the skin surface, the allergic response is seen after 24 to 48 hours of exposure to that antigen.