Contact allergic dermatitis (CAD) is an inflammatory eczematous skin disease that manifests by skin lesions at the site of contact with an external allergen in a previously sensitized individual and it is the result of a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. The prevalence of CAD in the European general population is between 10 and 27%. Women are affected more often than men and the risk of developing CAD is higher in some occupations. The most common allergens appear to be nickel and cobalt from jewelry, fragrances in cosmetics, rubber chemicals, chromate in leather clothing and footwear and hair dye. The pathogenetic mechanism of CAD includes complex immune pathways and inflammatory mediators, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. In the clinical presentation, skin lesions are often found on exposed parts of the body accompanied by pruritus. The diagnosis is made on by taking a detailed history of exposure, by suspecting and recognizing CAD based on clinical presentation and by preforming appropriate diagnostic tests. Epicutaneous patch testing is the gold standard for diagnosing CAD. It is performed by applying allergens of the baseline and, if indicated, extended series of allergens under occlusion for 48 hours on the cleansed skin of the patient's back. Reactions are read at least twice, and it is optimal to do so on second, third or fourth and seventh day after application. Reactions are interpreted according to the criteria of the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG), and the final interpretation of the results takes into account the relevance of the allergen. Once the causative allergens have been identified, patient education is crucial to proper treatment and management of the patient. Quality education on presence of allergens in patient's environment and different ways to avoid it is needed. Pharmacological treatment of localized form of CAD includes the usage of topical corticosteroids with mild and high potency and local calcineurin inhibitors. In cases where avoidance measures and local therapy are not successful, ultraviolet therapy and systemic immunosuppression may be considered. In severe form of CAD, systemic immunosuppression with corticosteroids, oral retinoids, azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclosporine, or mycophenolate mofetil is used. Measures of prevention are universal and include avoiding further contact with the allergen, protecting the skin barrier by using moisturizers and appropriate protective equipment.