Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a term used for a variety of inflammatory skin disorders. Known causes of dermatitis include drugs, certain substances, chemicals, food, and infections. The term dermatitis is broad, it may refer to any of the following skin conditions as well: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.

Dermatitis may appear as a rash consisting of papules, vesicles and patches of red that may be confluent or scattered. Severe forms of dermatitis, referred to as eczema is characterized by weeping and crusting lesions. Chronic dermatitis may often lead to skin dryness with noticeable presence of scales and fissures.

Atopic dermatitis or eczema usually presents as a rash that is itchy and predisposes the patient to scratching causing excoriations and secondary infection. The rash of atopic dermatitis usually recurs and gets worse when the patient is exposed to allergens. The lesions are usually eczematous characterized by weeping lesions. A family history of asthma or allergy is required to diagnose a patient with atopic dermatitis. The dermatitis usually resolves within 6 weeks but recurs once exposed to causative agents that may trigger another atopic reaction. Treatment of atopic dermatitis involves avoidance of skin irritants and the use of moisturizers to avoid drying of the skin. Anti-inflammatory topical agents may be used to treat secondary bacterial infection. Antihistamines may be used for the relief of pruritus (itching).

Contact dermatitis is another inflammatory skin condition caused by any external substance that directly or indirectly injures the skin. The most common presentation of contact dermatitis is hand eczema which is linked to occupational exposure to certain agents. Diaper dermatitis is also a type of contact or irritant dermatitis. Common agents that cause contact dermatitis are harsh soaps, detergents and prolonged wetness. Identification and removal of the offending agents will cause the skin eruptions in contact dermatitis to resolve. A course of oral steroids may hasten the inflammation but dosage should be tapered over 2-3 weeks.

Seborrheic dermatitis, one of the most common dermatitis is a skin condition characterized by greasy scales commonly located in the scalp area. It can also affect the eyebrows, eyelids, hair-line and the sides of the nose. Treatment with topical steroids and topical anti-fungal agent is often effective. Shampoos containing coal tar and salicylic acid may be used for the scalp and beard areas.

Dermatitis