Poison ivy, also known as Rhus dermatitis, is a type of skin rash caused by contact with the resin of plants in the Anacardiaceae family and Rhus genus (sometimes classed in the genus Toxicodendron). These plants include poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
The resin, called urushiol, can also be found in the cashew tree, mango tree, Japanese lacquer tree, and the marking nut tree. Ginkgo biloba contains a similar substance that can cause dermatitis in people who are sensitive to urushiol.
In the United States, poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are among the most common causes of contact dermatitis. Millions of Americans require medical attention each year after being exposed to one of these plants.
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