A - Z Encyclopedia
Understanding Dermatitis
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of Dermatitis?
Dry, reddish, itchy skin indicates some type of dermatitis, or skin inflammation, of which there are many types.
- A red rash that is limited to the area of skin exposed to an irritant is probably contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction.
- Red, itchy, circular patches of weeping, scaly, or encrusted skin signal nummular dermatitis, common in older people who have dry skin or live in dry environments.
- Greasy, yellowish scales on the scalp and eyebrows, behind the ears, and around the nose indicate seborrheic dermatitis; in infants it is called cradle cap.
- Scaling, sometimes ulcerated skin appearing inside the lower legs and around the ankles may indicate stasis dermatitis.
- Extreme, persistent itchiness may signal atopic dermatitis (eczema). Many times, however, itchiness results simply from dry skin.
Call Your Doctor If:
- Your skin has oozing sores or other signs of infection. You may need treatment with antibiotics or other drugs.
- The affected skin does not respond to treatment with over-the-counter creams or medicated shampoos. You should have a medical diagnosis and treatment.
During a flare-up of eczema, if you are exposed to anyone with herpes simplex virus infection, you are at increased risk of contracting the viral disorder.
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
