section_path: Pathophysiology/Allergic contact dermatitis
section_name: Allergic contact dermatitis
paragraph_text: Allergic contact dermatitis
  
  Although allergic contact dermatitis is termed an "allergic" reaction (which usually refers to type I hypersensitivity), its pathophysiology involves a reaction that more correctly corresponds to a type IV hypersensitivity reaction. In type IV hypersensitivity, there is activation of certain types of T cells (CD8+) that destroy target cells on contact, as well as activated macrophages that produce hydrolytic enzymes.