DERMATITIS/ECZEMA

WHAT IS DERMATITIS? WHAT IS ECZEMA?
Dermatitis and eczema are terms that are often used interchangeably. These conditions can be classified as acute or chronic.

Dermatitis is often acute and refers to an area of irritation usually because of contact with some type of allergen. With acute dermatitis the skin is often darker, thicker and itchier than surrounding unaffected skin.

Chronic dermatitis is also known as Atopic Eczema. This is often characterized by red swollen, scaly, blistering areas. This condition is particularly prevalent in children and usually there is some type of family history of the disease. Psychological stress can provoke or aggravate this condition, because it interferes with suppressing normal immune responses.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is related to a yeast called pityrosporum ovale (also known as malassezia furfur). People with this form of dermatitis seem to have a reduced resistance to this yeast. For some unknown reason, people with certain neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease and stroke are particularly prone to this form of dermatitis. Seborrhoeic dermatitis appears at after puberty. It varies in severity and can persist for years.

Dermatitis is not contagious.

CAUSES OF DERMATITIS
Allergic contact dermatitis is caused by skin contact with substances such as latex, perfume, metals, hair dye and other chemicals that most people do not have a reaction to.

Handling irritants such as detergents and other cleaning solvents, harsh chemicals and friction causes other forms of dermatitis.

Sebborrhoeic dermatitis is caused by a reduced resistance to the yeast known as Pityrosporum ovale. It can be aggravated by other illnesses, stress and fatigue. But, compromised general health does not cause it.

DIAGNOSIS
Dermatologists can usually identify the type of dermatitis by sight and when necessary patch testing is performed to determine the source of the allergen.

TREATMENT
The most important aspect of treatment is to identify and address the source of the condition.Once the source has been identified, your physician can help to correct and control it.

These treatments include:

• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines
• Hydrocortisone Cream
• Ketoconazole or Ciclopirox Cream
• Medicated shampoos
• Systemic steroids
• Tar creams
• Topical steroid creams

SELF CARE AND LONG TERM CONTROL
Allergens—protect the skin and avoid known skin allergens
Bathing—use lukewarm water. Showers are better. Do not use standard bar soap. Use a mild substitute cleansing bar or liquid that your dermatologist recommends.
Clothing- wear soft cotton clothes that are comfortable and not tight. Avoid wool if possible.
Irritants—protect the skin and avoid known irritants
Moisturizers—apply non-perfumed moisturizers liberally and as often as necessary, particularly after bathing. Dermatologists can recommend appropriate products.
When these steps fail to improve or control the condition see your dermatologist for further help.