Dermatitis refers to the inflammation of skin and comprises of a range of ailments. It presents with dry, swollen and red skin, causes and features of which, vary according to the type of dermatitis.
There are many types of dermatitis known, the most common ones are:
Atopic Dermatitis or Eczema :
It is a hypersensitivity reaction to various allergens seen most commonly in children. It presents with red and itchy skin, red to brownish-grey patches, small raised bumps that may leak fluid and crust over on scratching, skin is cracked, thickened, raw and swollen from scratching. It can be accompanied with asthma or hay fever.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis :
It presents with red, itchy, scaly rashes with visible borders due to contact or exposure to chemicals or elements like nickel, fragrances, hair dyes, preservatives, rubber and latex products.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis :
Presents with a rash affecting only a small area with no boundaries. It appears immediately on exposure to irritants like harsh soaps, cleansers and solvents.
Dyshidrotic Dermatitis :
It presents with a sudden occurrence of a rash with small, itchy blisters on palms, soles and along the sides of fingers and toes. Small itchy blisters are the most characteristic sign of this type of dermatitis. Skin is red, cracked, and sweaty.
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis :
Also known as cradle cap in babies, this affects most commonly the scalp, but can also affect face and chest. It presents with itchy or burning skin with scales which are yellow or white and oily, that flake off easily.
