Findings

Blisters and bullae are often arranged in lines or streaks. They are filled with serous fluid.

Impression

Allergic contact dermatitis due to exposure to poison oak.

Clinical Pathologic Correlation
This patient had a history of exposure to poison oak. Poison ivy is limited to the Eastern United States. Because the lesion is caused by an allergic reaction, it does not occur on first exposure. Hence, clinical history is the key.

Pathology Pointer

The linear distribution of blisters and bullae at sites of contact also suggests contact dermatitis. Allergens may be plants, animals, liquids, or smoke (e.g. smoke of burning poison ivy).

Preparation

Fresh

View

Clinical photograph

Specimen

Skin

Image Credit

Terence O'Grady, M.D.
Department of Medicine
School of Medicine
University of California, San Diego