Contact Hypersensitivity to Mikenia Scandens- A Recently Introduced Wild Creeper of Assam and Meghalaya

Abstract

A wild creeper Mikenia scandens was observed to grow profusely over the plantations throughout the states of Assam and Meghalaya. To evaluate the potential of this weed for causing contact dermatitis patch tests were performed with the leaves of this plant on patients having contact dermatitis dus to various causes'. Out of 31 patients tested at Guwahati, 2 patients showed (+ +) reactions and another 2 showed (+) reactions. These patients had dermatitis on their hands (2 cases), face (1) and legs (1) respectively. Out of 100 patients tested at Delhi who had never been exposed to this plants, 2 patients showed (+ +) reactions. 1 patient showed (+) reaction while another 8 patients showed ( + ) reactions. These reactions are likely to be instances of cross sensitivity to an as yet unidentified chemical. It seems important to monitor the development of further cases of contact dermatitis due to this plants.