The handling of chile peppers (Capsicum species) can result in dermal contact with capsaicin, which can cause a chemical burn.
Risk factors for a significant exposure:
(1) prolonged skin contact with chile peppers (during peeling, cooking, etc) or food containing chile peppers
(2) high capsaicin content
(3) commercial operation (growing, harvesting, rendering)
(4) excessive use of capsaicin topical cream
Clinical findings:
(1) erythema
(2) pain or burning
(3) paresthesias
Differential diagnosis:
(1) allergic reaction to a pepper allergen
(2) cellulitis
Immersion in cool tap water can provide pain relief.
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Purpose: To evaluate a patient for capsaicin-related contact dermatitis.
Specialty: Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation, Dermatology, Toxicology
Objective: clinical diagnosis, including family history for genetics
ICD-10: L23.6, L24.6, L25.4,
