Dermatitis affects around 1 of every 5 people at some time in their life. It is a term literally meaning "inflammation (itis) of the skin (derma)".
There are several different types of dermatitis, including:
The terms ‘eczema' and ‘dermatitis' are often used to describe the same reaction, occurring on sensitive areas such as the face, chest and other skin creases.
However, eczema more specifically refers to a persistent or recurring skin rash, characterised by redness, oedema, itching, with possible crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing or bleeding.
In chronic dermatitis skin can be thick, leathery and with excess ridges, as well as dark and dull.
Dermatitis also severely dries out the skin, whereas eczema can be wet or dry...
NB: As the skin is known medically as the ‘third lung', eczema and dermatitis are also very closely related to asthma. In individuals who have weak lungs, these skin conditions may easily develop into asthma.
Conventional treatment for most forms of dermatitis usually consists of corticosteroid and/or antibiotic medication.
Causes
All forms of dermatitis have an allergic reaction aspect in common to specific antigens. The most common of these are chemical/toxic irritants and food sensitivities.
A poorly functioning digestive system increases toxins in the intestines, which contribute to the development of atopic dermatitis; and biotin, zinc and B vitamin deficiencies can lead to Seborrheic dermatitis.
Other factors are also important however:
Even psychological stresses can provoke or aggravate dermatitis by suppressing normal immune system mechanisms