Contact with substances that cause irritation or allergic reactions is known as?

The term specifically describing contact with substances that cause irritation or allergic reactions is known as "irritant or allergen contact." This terminology highlights the dual nature of reactions that can occur when the skin is exposed to harmful substances.

Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when the skin is damaged by a particular substance, leading to symptoms like dryness, redness, and itching. Allergic contact dermatitis, on the other hand, is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction that occurs after sensitization to an allergen. The correct choice encompasses both scenarios of skin reactions due to contact with substances, making it the most comprehensive and accurate descriptor for these skin responses.

The other terms provided refer to more specific conditions or broader categories. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation and can vary in cause and presentation. Hypersensitivity usually describes an exaggerated immune response that may not solely relate to skin contact with irritants or allergens. Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by scaling and inflammation, which does not typically arise from direct contact with irritating substances. Thus, the terminology appropriately captures the essence of the skin's reaction to various external agents.