The Relationship of Atopic Allergy and Dermatitis

Urticaria and angioedema are the proved allergic cutaneous expressions of the atopic state. In contrast to these purely vascular reactions, it is by no means certain that an eczematous or dermatitic reaction, with its prominent inflammatory changes in the epidermis and corium, can result from the specific action of atopic allergens (atopens). Nonetheless, some dermatologists and most allergists believe that inhalation and ingestion of atopens contained in foods, pollens, molds, wool, etc., may be the direct cause of the lesions of atopic dermatitis and certain eczematous eruptions, particularly of the hands (food allergy, mold allergy, etc.).1-16Whether there is a mechanism by which atopens can produce dermatitis in addition to urticaria and angioedema is the subject of this paper. Since the numerous clinical observations supply arguments for either side of this question according to one's preference, we have resorted to an experimental approach in an effort