Diagnosis of poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac often is made on the basis of physical examination. In most cases, recent exposure to the poisonous plant, followed by observance of the characteristic rash is enough to make a definitive diagnosis.
Because poisonous plants can cause symptoms that are similar to other dermatologic conditions, a physician should be consulted. Physicians examine the area(s) of the body affected by the rash (called distribution) and the type, shape, and arrangement of the blisters.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 24 Aug 2007
Reviewed by: Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
Last Reviewed: 04 Dec 2007
Poison Ivy & Other Poisonous Plants, Diagnosis reprinted with permission from dermatologychannel.net
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