a disease of the skin caused by poison or by an allergen. The causative agents may be such chemical substances as antibiotics, sulfanilamides, and bromine, iodine, arsenic, and mercury compounds, or such food products as berries, cheese, or fish. Toxicoderma can also occur as a metabolic disorder or an occupational disease.

The causative agent enters the body through the respiratory organs or the digestive tract, during injections, or by direct contact with the skin. The primary manifestation of toxicoderma is a rash, which is generally symmetrical; it can take the form of inflamed or hemorrhagic maculae, boils, or blisters. In severe cases, widespread areas of the skin are affected (erythroderma) and the patient manifests fever, cardiovascular disorders, or symptoms of anaphylactic shock.

With the removal of the allergen the symptoms of toxicoderma rapidly disappear, although relapses (usually severe) may occur with subsequent repeated exposure to the causative agent. Treatment consists in avoiding contact with the suspected allergen or toxic agent, as well as in the use of desensitizing agents and of expectant treatment.