What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Autoeczematization
• Autosensitization Dermatitis
• Disseminated Secondary Eczema

What is Id Reaction? (Definition/Background Information)

• Id Reaction, also known as Autosensitization Dermatitis, is the term given to generalized itching and rash that is apparent not only on the ‘specific’ affected area, but also on other body regions
• The Id Reaction affecting different parts of the body may start off with a local area of dermatitis. For example, contact dermatitis of the hand can cause autosensitization of the immune system, which in turn can spread the signs and symptoms to the entire body
• The cause of the condition is not known, but it may be due to an autoimmune reaction of the body to the underlying cause of primary itching. The contributory factors for Id Reaction may include infections, insect bites, and some forms of eczema
• Id Reaction is often an underdiagnosed condition. The diagnostic tools may involve skin culture for various infections, KOH test, allergy skin testing for other skin disorders, and a biopsy to exclude similar conditions
• Apart from generalized extensive  itching and rash, the condition can cause loss of appetite, fever, and disturbed sleep. The complications may include secondary infections and emotional stress due to cosmetic issues
• Id Reaction can be treated through a combination of antihistamines, topical applications, and oral medications. The prognosis is typically excellent with suitable treatment, though the outcome also depends upon the primary reason for Id Reaction

The name and mechanism of the Id Reaction of the skin is unrelated to the Freudian construct of the psyche having three components termed Id, Ego, and Superego.

Who gets Id Reaction? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Id Reaction can be observed in individuals of any age, who have a primary itchy skin condition
• Both male and female genders are affected
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Id Reaction? (Predisposing Factors)

Following are the risk factors for Autosensitization Dermatitis or Id Reaction:

• Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections
• Presence of body lice
• Scabies
• Chronic venous eczema and acute contact eczema
• Insect bites

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Id Reaction? (Etiology)

• Presently, the cause of Id Reaction is not fully understood or known
• Researchers feel that it may be due to upregulated immune reactions of the body to the skin area affected by primary dermatitis (any skin condition)
• The primary dermatitis may include skin infections, eczema, or insect bites

Note: Id Reaction does not spread from one individual to another. Nevertheless, the primary skin condition that forms the basis for Id Reaction can be contagious/infectious.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Id Reaction?

The signs and symptoms of Id Reaction may include the following:

• The distinctive characteristic of Id Reaction is that the itching and rash is not local to any region, but is generalized and occurs all over the body
• The non-specific itching occurs due to a primary dermatitis condition, which might have arisen in some other part of the body (such as on the arm or leg)
• The affected areas can have papules, blisters, or plaques
• There can be associated fever and loss of appetite
• Intense itching can disturb sleep

There may be signs and symptoms attributed to the main (localized) skin condition.

How is Id Reaction Diagnosed?

A few diagnostic tests that are performed for Id Reaction may include:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial; a dermatologist will carefully examine the skin to help in the diagnosis
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Skin culture for bacteria, fungus, or virus
• Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test: The KOH prep involves microscopic observation of skin scrapings to eliminate any skin fungal infections
• Allergy skin testing to rule out contact dermatitis
• Skin biopsy: A biopsy of the lesion is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
• Other tests to establish the presence of a primary skin condition (primary dermatitis)

Note: It is important to note that the allergy skin patch testing should not be performed when the individual is having severe signs and symptoms due to an Id Reaction.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Id Reaction?

The complications of Id Reaction may include:

• Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections on the skin surface, due to bleeding and ulceration of the skin lesions
• Individuals may have emotional and psychological stress due to the constant scratching and from cosmetic issues
• Loss of sleep due to intense scratching and discomfort at night
• Complications that arise from the underlying cause of Id Reaction

How is Id Reaction Treated?

The main focus of Id Reaction treatment involves treating the cause of underlying itching, which is the primary dermatitis. The following measures may be used to treat Id Reaction:

• Administration of antihistamines if itching is due to allergic causes
• Use of topical steroidal creams and lotions
• Oral steroid medications
• Antibiotics may be used to treat infections
• Ensure proper skin care by avoiding the tendency to itch
• Maintaining cleanliness and proper body hygiene

How can Id Reaction be Prevented?

• Currently, it may not be possible to prevent Id Reaction
• Undertaking appropriate treatment of the primary skin condition may help avoid Id Reaction

What is the Prognosis of Id Reaction? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Id Reaction is generally excellent with appropriate treatment
• However, the prognosis may also be dependent upon the severity of the primary dermatitis (skin disorder)

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Id Reaction:

There is no evidence to prove that dietary factors have an influence on Id Reaction.