Alternative therapy for autosensitization dermatitis

During outdoor activities, Dendrocnide meyeniana can induce severe acute dermatitis, which usually needs topical or systemic corticosteroids, and oral antihistamine to alleviate associated symptoms such as exudation, pruritus or burning sensation. In this paper we report a 14-year-old male, with autosensitization dermatitis caused by Dendrocnide meyeniana, who had erythematous papules accompanied by itching and stinging sensations over left inner elbow first and then extended to the trunk and limbs. Based on the theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and pharmacological studies, the combined formula of Xiao-feng-san (XFS) and Huang-lian-jie-du-tang (HLJDT) was prescribed in the form of concentrated herbal extracts per oral. Remission of skin lesions and the accompanied symptoms was observed after treatment using the TCM formula for 7 days. Follow-up of the patient showed no relapse. We therefore conclude that TCM herbs may provide an alternative treatment for autosensitization dermatitis caused by Dendrocnide meyeniana.