Dermatitis

Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin. When someone contracts dermatitis, it may indicate another ailment. In the early stages of dermatitis, you typically see red, dry, and itchy skin in the affected area. 

A more serious dermatitis could result in crusty scales or blisters that ooze fluid in the affected area.

Since many things can irritate the skin, we try to identify the specific category of dermatitis for each patient. Treatments for dermatitis are similar for most types of skin irritation and inflammation.

• Nummular Dermatitis presents as coin-shaped red plaques and typically occurs on the legs, hands, arms, and torso. This condition is more common in men than in women, and the peak age of onset is between 55 and 65 years old. Living in a dry environment or taking frequent very hot showers can cause & aggravate this condition. 
• Atopic Dermatitis, or eczema, is a condition in which the skin, adequately. This type of eczema is hereditary and can often be associated with allergies, asthma, and stress. We look for defects in the skin barrier that allow moisture to escape and germs to enter, resulting in a more aggravated case if not properly treated. 
• Seborrheic Dermatitis is seen in infants and is called cradle cap dermatitis. This consists of greasy, yellowish, or reddish scaling on the scalp, face, or genitals. When it occurs, it is typically on or by the eyebrows or along the sides of the nose and can be aggravated by stress. For adults with seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp, it is the same as dandruff. 

Stasis Dermatitis is usually caused by poor circulation in the legs. It can happen in people with congestive heart failure, varicose veins, and other conditions that could cause chronic leg swelling. When one has been diagnosed with stasis dermatitis, one may start to see veins in the lower legs that fail to return blood efficiently. Sometimes ulcerated or open skin appears inside the lower legs and around the ankles.

 You may need treatment with stronger oral or topical cream antibiotics or other drugs. If you are exposed to anyone with a herpes simplex virus infection while you are having a flare-up of atopic dermatitis (eczema), you may be at increased risk of contracting the viral disorder. Contact us right away if you believe you have been exposed so we can begin treatment right away!