In order to know the meaning of the term dermatitis, it is necessary, first of all, to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we can establish that it is a word of Greek origin, since it is the result of the sum of two components of that language:
-The noun “derma, dermatos”, which can be translated as “skin”.
-The suffix “-itis”, which is used to indicate “inflammation”.
A dermatitis is an inflammation that affects the skin, the largest organ in the body. Dermatitis can present itself in different ways and exhibit various characteristics that make it less or more serious. See Abbreviation Finder for acronyms related to Dermatitis.
Simple dermatitis is a skin rash. An allergic reaction, an infection or a systemic disease are possible causes of a dermatitis of this type, which may be accompanied by itching, fever and other disorders.
On the other hand, it is known as contact dermatitis, an irritation that occurs in a localized sector of the skin, caused by the action of an external agent. It may be due to an irritating substance or an allergen. To reduce or eliminate the symptoms, it is possible to wash the area with soap and water, apply an acid solution and, in some cases and according to medical indication, take antihistamines.
The face, scalp, torso, and creases around the knees and elbows can be affected by atopic dermatitis, a very common skin disorder. Although its origin is not clear, this dermatitis is linked to problems of the immune system, genetic causes and environmental factors. Itching, reddening of the skin and the appearance of blisters are part of the clinical picture of atopic dermatitis, whose treatment may include the administration of drugs, cosmetic actions and changes in diet.
Dermatitis herpetiformis and seborrheic dermatitis are other types of dermatitis that can affect humans for different reasons.
Specifically, from seborrheic we can establish that it is of the chronic type and that it is identified because the person who suffers from it has both flaking of the skin and areas of the body that are reddened through itching. As a rule, these symptoms affect parts such as the chest, the scalp, the genitals and the face.
Likewise, we cannot forget about perioral dermatitis, which is what causes small bumps with pus to appear around the mouth. It is unknown what causes it, although it is considered that one of the reasons for its appearance may be the use of certain creams and even the inappropriate use of aerosols, for example.
In the same way, there is also stasis dermatitis that presents with itching, reddened skin on the shins and ankles, scabs or sores, swelling… It occurs when fluids accumulate in the legs as a result of different conditions related to blood circulation in those extremities.
There is also neurodermatitis that is manifested by itching, a red and rough area and peeling skin.
