Poison ivy (Eastern U.S.) or poison oak (Western U.S.) is a delayed allergic reaction.  Brushing the plant on the skin results in blisters and slightly elevated lesions 1-2 days after exposure, accompanying a severe itch. Poison ivy, or poison oak, typically has a linear pattern. This image displays the line-like configuration of the inflamed skin lesions typical of poison ivy. This image displays poison ivy in linear lesions, due to the patient either rubbing the allergen across the skin or brushing up against the poison ivy plant. The irregular bumps of early poison ivy dermatitis may resemble acne when on the face. This image displays the poison ivy allergen on the face.  This image displays a rash with a linear distribution typical of poison ivy.  Poison ivy often causes facial swelling and "weepy" skin lesions. This image displays fluid-filled blisters typical of the intense allergic reaction of poison ivy dermatitis. This image displays poison ivy, which is identifiable by the grouping of three leaves. Also note: Berries carry the allergen as well. This image displays the poison oak plant, which, like poison ivy, has 3 leaves. Unlike poison ivy, however, the poison oak plant typically looks more like a shrub and has leaves that resemble an oak tree's leaves. Poison sumac has between 7 and 13 leaves on each branch of the plant. Poison sumac can be differentiated from nonpoisonous types of sumac by the location of the fruit on the plant, with the fruit of the poisonous plant growing between the leaf and the branch, opposed to the ends of the branches.
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Picture of Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac: Poison ivy (Eastern U.S.) or poison oak (Western U.S.) is a delayed allergic reaction.  Brushing the plant on the skin results in blisters and slightly elevated lesions 1-2 days after exposure, accompanying a severe itch. Divider line
Poison ivy (Eastern U.S.) or poison oak (Western U.S.) is a delayed allergic reaction. Brushing the plant on the skin results in blisters and slightly elevated lesions 1-2 days after exposure, accompanying a severe itch.
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Who's At Risk
Both males and females of all ages are equally affected by poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008
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