Toxic contact dermatitis from poison ivy in a private garden in Germany

Abstract

A couple suffered for 5 years from recurrent eruptions with vesicles and bullae after contact with an unknown "climbing weed" in their private garden in Germany. After this plant was identified as poison ivy and eradicated, their skin problems were solved. This is the first report of poison ivy in this setting. Urushiols in poison ivy are not only strong allergens but also potent irritants. Negative patch tests in the husband suggest that the bullous dermatitis was a toxic reaction.