Dermatitis

Dermatitis: An Overview

Definition

Dermatitis is a term used for inflammation of the top layer of skin (the dermis) that results in symptoms including red, swollen, and itchy skin. This includes diseases like eczema, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Types of Dermatitis

1. Atopic Dermatitis

Mostly a childhood issue but can last until adulthood.

Family history of allergies or asthma

Symptoms: dried itchy skin often on the hands, feet, face, inside of the elbow, or inside of the knee.

2. Contact Dermatitis

Resulting from contact with an irritant or allergen

Split into irritant contact dermatitis (non allergic) and allergic contact dermatitis (reaction to a substance)

Symptoms: localized redness, swelling, and blisters.

3. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Does associate with regions having more oiliness e.g. dydetion on scalp, face or back.

More often manifests as a form of dandruff or flakiness of skin.

Signs: red hefty patches that are oily with white or yellowish spots.

4. Dyshidrotic Dermatitis

Small itchy blisters on the hands and feet.

Commonly caused by stress, allergy or wet conditions.

Signs: severe itching, blisters, and peeling skin after the blisters have broken.

5. Nummular Dermatitis

Looks like round, coin-shaped patches of itchy skin

Commonly caused by dry skin or exposure to the environment.

Sputum: itch, scale, and sometimes tear patch.

Symptoms of Dermatitis

Itching: This is may be symptomatic that is the most troublesome, as it can be severe and often leads to scratching.

Redness: Inflamed areas may appear red and swollen.

Dehydration: Ability may be broken or flaky

Blisters: These can form, especially in contact dermatitis and dyshidrotic dermatitis.

Scaling: Peeling or flaking may occur, as in seborrheic dermatitis.

Crusts: In case the secretion dries, the weeping lesions can lead to crusts.

Diagnosis of Dermatitis

Diagnosis of dermatitis is by clinical history and examination. Here are the key steps:

1\. Medical History

The length and description of symptoms, what causes the symptoms and whether members of the family have a skin condition or allergy.

2\. Physical Examination

Examination of the skin helps to evaluate the type and extent of lesions.

3\. Allergy Testing

In cases of suspected allergic contact dermatitis, patch testing may be performed to determine the allergens responsible.

4\. skin Biopsy

On rare occasions, a biopsy can be performed to eliminate other conditions or confirm a diagnosis.

5\. other tests

Blood tests or cultures may be necessary if an infection or other systemic condition is suspected.

Management and treatment of Dermatitis

Management is strictly according to the type and degree of dermatitis. there are some general approaches: 

1. Topical treatments

Corticosteroids: reduces inflammation and itch; used in many cases of dermatitis.

Calcineurin Inhibitors: Non-steroids like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus for sensitive areas.

Moisturizers: daily application helps to keep the skin hydrated and able to form a barrier.

2. Systemic medications

Antihistamines: assist in alleviation of the itching and improves sleep when the itching is severe.

Antibiotics: are used in the secondary bacterial infections.

Immunosuppressants: in severe cases, systemic pharmaceutical drugs may be used.

3. Phototherapy

- Controlled UV light exposure can be an alleviant in chronic conditions.

4. lifestyle measures

Identification of possible causatives and their eradication e.g. allergens or irritants)

-daily routine of application, maintenance and hydration

5. Changes to diet

At times the symptoms will also be investigated and uncovered using an exclusion diet which identifies food allergic factors in certain patients.

6. complementary therapies

Certain patients also get improved upon under the influence of Acupuncture, herbal or other Stress management therapy: again such scientific evidence, although strong is anecdotal only.

Prevention of Dermatitis

Avoid known Triggers: keep a diary to song capacity allergens and irritants.

Maintain skin Hydration: Use mild cleansers and moisturizers regularly.

Wear protective clothing: when exposed to irritants or allergens.

Engage in stress management: stress can aggravate symptoms; recall mindfulness or relaxation techniques.

Conclusion

Such complex dermal issues have many kinds, and multiple presentations. An individual who is well familiar with signs and symptoms along with proper diagnosis and therapeutic planning is always required for successful management of the condition. Early treatment and individual planning towards treatment significantly improves the life quality of the patients involved with this condition.