This patient presented with a eczematous patch on right thigh which according to him was more painful than itchy. However he finally agreed that the pain radiating from the back is present for 2 years, but the patch started only two weeks back. Further ‘Sherlock Holmes’ investigation revealed that he carries his mobile phone in his right pocket and he has changed its cover few weeks back! Is this Allergic Contact Dermatitis? I have started him on steroid cream. I have called him for followup after 2 weeks.
Bell Eapen
AI, machine learning & digital health consultant at SkinHelpDesk
Techie Dermatologist, Information Systems PhD, Supporter of Open-Source Software, Machine Learning and AI geek,loves cricket, Canadian wine and beer. [Resume]
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Interesting!
Is it a plastic cover?
Does he keep coins too in his pocket?
Yes Madam. It was a plastic cover. I asked him about coins. He has a wallet which he keeps in the opposite pocket!
The British Association of Dermatologists noticed a similar reaction to nickel in mobile phones in 2008 and guess what they have named the condition?
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/news/20081017/cell-phone-skin-rash-tied-to-nickel
Here is another case report:
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/123227345/abstract?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0
it is not surprising that recent reports of facial allergic contact dermatitis to cell phone metals have begun to emerge.
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