Excerpt from Id Reaction (Autoeczematization)

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Background

Id reaction, or autoeczematization, is a generalized acute cutaneous reaction to a variety of stimuli, including infectious and inflammatory skin conditions. The pruritic rash that characterizes the id reaction, which is considered immunologic in origin, has been referred to as dermatophytid, pediculid,¹ or bacterid when associated with a corresponding infectious process. Clinical and histopathological manifestations are variable and depend on the etiology of the eruption.

Pathophysiology

While the exact cause of the id reaction is unknown, the following factors are thought to be responsible: (1) abnormal immune recognition of autologous skin antigens, (2) increased stimulation of normal T cells by altered skin constituents,^{2, 3} (3) lowering of the irritation threshold, (4) dissemination of infectious antigen with a secondary response, and (5) hematogenous dissemination of cytokines from a primary site.

Frequency

United States

The exact prevalence of id reaction is not known. Dermatophytid reactions are reported to occur in 4-5% of patients with dermatophyte infections. Id reactions have been reported in up to 37% of patients with stasis dermatitis. Furthermore, an estimated two thirds of patients with contact dermatitis superimposed on stasis dermatitis develop an id reaction.

Mortality/Morbidity

Morbidity results from symptoms of the id reaction and the acute onset of the primary eruption.

Race

The condition has no known predilection for any racial or ethnic group.

Sex

The condition has no known predilection for either sex.

Age

Predilections according to age group are unknown but are influenced by the primary cause of the reaction.

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