Dermatitis can be classified into several types, each with its distinct characteristics:

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Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema):

• Overview: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing form of dermatitis that often begins in childhood and may continue into adulthood. It is commonly associated with other atopic conditions such as asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

• Symptoms: Red, itchy patches of skin, often located on the face, neck, hands, and the insides of the elbows and knees. The skin may become dry, scaly, and thickened due to chronic scratching.

• Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system dysregulation, and environmental factors.​

• Triggers: Common triggers include allergens (e.g., pollen, pet dander), irritants (e.g., soaps, detergents), stress, and weather changes.

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Contact Dermatitis:

• Overview: Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to an inflammatory reaction.

Types:

• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by direct contact with substances like harsh soaps, detergents, or chemicals that irritate the skin.

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Occurs when the skin develops an allergic reaction to a substance, such as nickel, poison ivy, or certain cosmetics.

• Symptoms: Redness, swelling, and itching at the site of contact, often accompanied by blisters or sores in severe cases.

• Causes: Exposure to specific irritants or allergens.

• Triggers: Common triggers include certain metals, fragrances, cosmetics, and plants like poison ivy.​

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Seborrheic Dermatitis:

• Overview: Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic form of dermatitis that primarily affects areas of the body with a high density of sebaceous (oil-producing) glands, such as the scalp, face, and chest.​​

• Symptoms: Greasy, yellowish scales or patches, redness, and itching. In infants, it is commonly known as cradle cap.

• Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a combination of factors, including genetics, hormones, and an overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) on the skin.

• Triggers: Stress, cold and dry weather, and hormonal changes.​

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Nummular Dermatitis:

• Overview: Nummular dermatitis is characterized by coin-shaped patches of irritated skin, typically on the arms, legs, and torso.

• Symptoms: Round, itchy, and sometimes oozing or crusty patches that can become scaly over time.

• Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but it is often associated with dry skin, environmental factors, or a history of atopic dermatitis.

• Triggers: Cold, dry weather, frequent bathing, and irritants like wool or harsh soaps.

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Stasis Dermatitis:

• Overview: Stasis dermatitis occurs in individuals with poor circulation, particularly in the lower legs. It is often associated with chronic venous insufficiency.

• Symptoms: Red, swollen, itchy skin, often accompanied by varicose veins, scaling, and ulceration in severe cases.

• Causes: Poor blood circulation, typically in the legs, leading to fluid buildup and skin inflammation.

• Triggers: Prolonged standing or sitting, injury to the lower legs, and obesity.

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Dyshidrotic Dermatitis:

• Overview: Dyshidrotic dermatitis affects the hands and feet, causing small, itchy blisters, particularly on the sides of the fingers, palms, and soles.

• Symptoms: Tiny, fluid-filled blisters that cause intense itching and may lead to cracking and peeling of the skin.

• Causes: The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to stress, allergies, or exposure to certain metals like nickel.

• Triggers: Stress, excessive sweating, and exposure to water or certain metals.