Is it, or isn't it? Poison ivy look-a-likes.
Poison ivy causes more allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) than any other cause. Although physicians rightfully focus on the treatment of the dermatitis, prevention will be aided by recognition of the foreboding plant. Likewise, many other plants can masquerade as poison ivy and cause one to needlessly curtail his or her activities because of fear of a bad reaction. The most common poison ivy pretenders in the United States are discussed, and distinguishing plant characteristics are highlighted.
McGovern
T W
TW
Fort Wayne Dermatology, P.C. IN, USA. twmcgovern@pol.net
LaWarre
S R
SR
Brunette
C
C
D011040:Dermatitis, Toxicodendron / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D010947:Plants, Toxic; D012251:Toxicodendron / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000145:classification