Dermatitis

What is dermatitis? 

Dermatitis is a broad diagnosis for skin irritation or inflammation. It can be present as dry, red and itchy rash, sometimes with swelling, blisters, and oozing. Dermatitis is not contagious but can be severely uncomfortable and painful.

What are common types of dermatitis?

● Atopic Dermatitis (eczema) : May be experienced as early as infancy and observed as blotches of small red bumps along creases of the skin: elbows, knees, and neck.

● Contact Dermatitis : An uncomfortably itchy, red rash that is observed as an effect to direct contact with discomforting materials or an allergic reaction to them.

● Seborrheic Dermatitis : Associated with scaly, red skin and difficult to counter dandruff. It appears on oily areas of skin such as on the back, upper chest, and face.

● Follicular Eczema : Bumps are developed within hair follicles leading to raised and thickened appearance of the affected skin. Follicular eczema is more common in those with darker complexions.

● Diaper rash : Presents itself most often on babies but may also be observed on anyone wearing a diaper. Appears as patches of red inflamed skin on the thighs, genitals and buttocks.

● Cradle Cap : Seborrheic dermatitis in infants that appears as crusty and sebaceous (oily) patches on the scalp.

How is it diagnosed?

Many times your dermatologist will be able to identify dermatitis simply through examining the affected area and asking you questions about your symptoms. In some cases, to further confirm the diagnosis, and to rule out other options, patch testing may be performed. In this process, your dermatologist will need to sample, or biopsy, a small portion of the affected skin for histological analysis.

How can I treat this?

● Topical steroids : Creams and ointments with corticosteroid hold anti-inflammatory properties and suppress immune response to irritants.

● Phototherapy : This procedure consists of exposing the affected area of skin to ultraviolet (UV)

light. The light counters inflammation and increases cell division to allow faster generation of healthy skin.

● Oral Medications : Prescribed in severe cases to overcome inflammation, antibiotics to battle infection caused by bacteria, and antihistamines to aid in relieving itches.

What can I do?

● Use moisturizer

● Hydrocortisone cream : Temporary measure to relieve redness and itching.

● Wear cotton clothing : Cotton is gentle with the skin and will prevent further irritation of the affected area. Avoid direct contact of the irritated site with harsh materials (i.e. wool)

● Take dilute bleach bath : A dilute bleach bath may aid in terminating bacteria that causes

infection. Because improper bleaching of skin can be harmful, it is important to be cautious of the proportions used or irritation may heighten. Ask your dermatologist if this method is recommended for you.