Immunological mechanisms in allergic contact dermatitis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin disease resulting from an adverse reaction of the immune system to low-molecular-weight organic chemicals or metal ions. This review summarizes recent findings that highlight new details of the complex orchestration of the cellular and molecular immune response to contact allergens.

RECENT FINDINGS: Progress has been made in the characterization of the roles of natural killer T cells, natural killer cells, mast cells and neutrophils, as well as in the elucidation of signaling pathways triggered by contact allergens. Global technologies begin to reveal gene signatures for contact allergen identification and improved diagnostics.

SUMMARY: Recent progress in contact allergy research has deepened our understanding of the molecular and cellular pathomechanisms, and opens new avenues towards improved diagnostics and treatments, as well as prevention and risk assessment strategies.