It is not uncommon to see poison ivy with these red spots and growths on the leaves. Having not read a good explanation about these, I turned to – what else –ChatGPT for an AI answer and what it gave seems pretty good:

“Raised red spots on poison ivy leaves are often caused by a variety of factors, including:

Insect Activity: Many insects, such as aphids, mites, or leafhoppers, can cause red spots when they feed on the leaves. Their feeding can introduce toxins or cause physical damage, leading to localized reactions in the plant tissue.

Fungal Infections: Certain fungal diseases, like rusts or leaf spots, can create red or reddish-brown spots on poison ivy leaves. These fungi infect the plant tissues, leading to discolored and sometimes raised areas.

Environmental Stress: Conditions such as extreme heat, drought, or excessive moisture can stress the plant and cause it to develop red spots as a reaction.

Chemical Damage: Exposure to herbicides or other chemicals can cause damage to the leaves, leading to red spots as the plant tissue reacts.

Physical Injury: Mechanical damage from wind, hail, or contact with other plants or animals can also cause red spots on the leaves.

If you notice these spots, it’s generally an indication that the plant is experiencing some form of stress or attack, but it typically doesn’t impact the plant’s overall health significantly.”

I don’t know about you, but somehow I don’t feel bad for the poison ivy leaves that are battling this condition: for one thing, it doesn’t really bother the plant, and for another poison ivy doesn’t feel bad when it gives YOU red rough spots.