Dermatotoxin

A dermatoxin (from derma, the Greek word for skin) is a toxic chemical that damages skin, mucous membranes, or both, often leading to tissue necrosis. Dermatoxins can be drugs, natural chemicals, or synthetic chemicals.

The severity of the effects of a dermatoxic agent is strongly dependent on the dose, route of exposure, rate at which it spreads, and the health of the afflicted individual.

Examples of dermatoxic substances

• T-2 toxin
• Sterigmatocystin
• Sulfur mustard
• Psoralen
• Cantharidin

See also

• Vesicant

External links

• Dermatotoxins at the U.S. National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)