Contact Dermatitis

Minnesota Twins player Jon Rauch has had to leave prior to the start of two games this week due to an ailment that was first identified as an allergic reaction. MLB.com has described the condition as blisters on his hands. On Wednesday August 4, when Rauch was first removed due to his condition his manager identified his problem as an allergic reaction. Today, they think it might be Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, a viral illness. While reports seem to indicate that Rauch's condition is not an allergic reaction, blisters on the hands are a symptom of an allergic reaction.Blisters can be a sign of contact dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin caused by contact with a substance the individual is allergic to. It is a severe reaction to the allergen. The blisters and inflammation will occur on the part of the skin that the allergen came in contact with the individual. Possible causes for contact dermatitis include poisonous plants, soaps, detergents, shampoos, perfumes, cosmetics, lotions,jewelry, fabrics, and latex.Latex allergy has gotten particular media attention over the past decade. This is perhaps due to its common usage in hospitals and other sterile environments for gloves and its usage in condoms. With all the media attention one might expect that a large portion of the population has the allergy but the estimates are closer to about 1%. So, a latex allergy is no more likely than an allergy to the ingredients in soap, detergent, cosmetics, or other household items.Currently, Jon Rauch's condition is being identified as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, though the symptom of blisters on the hands are also a symptom of contact dermatitis. Chances are the average person who develops inflammation and blisters on a particular part of the skin is having an allergic reaction to something they came into contact with. If you have developed such symptoms contact a doctor immediately. If you have questions or concerns about allergies, contact our office to set up an appointment.