Dermatitis
An umbrella term for conditions that cause inflammation of the skin. The signs and symptoms are red rashes, dryness, and itchiness. This skin condition can occur anywhere on the body, including the scalp. It is not contagious and is treatable with medicated creams, ointments, or shampoos.
Types of Dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
Symptoms
- Dry skin
- Rash or swollen skin
- Itchiness
- Thickened and hardened skin
- Blisters, bullae
- Dandruff and bumps in hair follicles
When to see a doctor
Seek medical care if the rash is large, infected, and itchy or if the condition becomes painful and interferes with your daily activities.
Causes
- Exposure to irritants such as perfume or lotion
- Dry skin
- A viral or bacterial infection
- Stress
- Genetic factors
- Immune dysfunction
Risk factors
- Age
Though dermatitis affects every age group, children are more likely to develop atopic dermatitis than adults. - Health conditions
People who have allergies or asthma are at increased risk of developing atopic dermatitis. Those with HIV/AIDS, congestive heart failure, and Parkinson's disease have a higher risk of seborrheic dermatitis. - Workplace
If your jobs require you to be in frequent contact with cleaning supplies, metals, or solvents, this increases the risk of developing contact dermatitis or hand eczema.
Complications
- Open sores from scratching
- Skin infections
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
Prevention
- Wear personal protective equipment or protective clothing if you work with chemicals or irritants daily.
- Avoid a hot bath or shower and soaps that can dry the skin. Take a room-temperature shower for a maximum of 5-10 minutes with hypoallergenic soap.
- Keep your skin moisturized by using cream or lotion. According to studies, applying protective lotion on the skin of infants with a high risk of developing atopic dermatitis reduces the incidence of atopic dermatitis by 50%.
Diagnosis
- History and physical exam
The doctor will talk with you about your condition, examine the skin, and may order a biopsy if indicated. - Patch testing
It is to check if there is any allergic reaction to specific testing substances.
Treatment
- Corticosteroid medications such as gels, creams, ointments, and lotion
- Calcineurin inhibitors
- Phototherapy
- Wet dressings for severe atopic dermatitis
- Oral corticosteroids or dupilumab injection for severe cases
Preparation
Before your appointment, make a list of questions you would like to ask your doctor.
- What causes my symptoms?
- Are they temporary?
- What medications should I take?
And prepare answers to questions that the doctor may ask you.
- How often do you take a shower?
- What skin products are you using?
- Are you exposed to any chemicals or irritants at home or in the workplace?
- Do you have any stress?
- Are you able to sleep well?
- Does anyone in your family have asthma or allergies?
- What improves or worsens your condition?
