Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin. It causes redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blistering or peeling. The condition can be temporary or chronic, mild or severe, and it includes several specific types depending on the cause and pattern of symptoms.

Common Types of Dermatitis

1. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

• A chronic, itchy skin condition.

• Often associated with allergies, asthma, or a family history of these conditions.

• Common in children but can occur at any age.

2. Contact Dermatitis

Occurs when the skin reacts to something it touches.

• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by chemicals, soaps, detergents, or friction.

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by allergens such as nickel, cosmetics, latex, fragrances, or plants like poison ivy.

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

• Causes flaky, greasy, and yellowish patches, especially on the scalp, eyebrows, and sides of the nose.

• Known as dandruff when limited to the scalp.

4. Stasis Dermatitis

• Caused by poor circulation in the legs.

• Often seen in older adults or individuals with varicose veins or chronic swelling.

5. Nummular Dermatitis

• Round, coin-shaped patches on the skin.

• Often triggered by dry skin, injury, or infection.

6. Perioral Dermatitis

• Red, bumpy rash around the mouth, nose, or eyes.

• Often linked to topical steroids or certain cosmetics.

Common Symptoms

• Redness

• Itching, sometimes severe

• Dry or scaly skin

• Swelling

• Crusting or oozing (in acute cases)

• Blister formation

• Thickened skin from long-term scratching