Dermatitis Solutions in Phoenix | Dermatitis Buckeye

Dermatitis has many forms and can be treated in a variety of ways. If you have this condition, our dermatology specialists at Regency can help.

What is dermatitis?

Dermatitis is a broad term used to describe rashes. There are many types of dermatitis. Some of the most common are seborrheic dermatitis, eczema or atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, asteatotic eczema, nummular eczema and dyshidrotic eczema.

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing form of dermatitis that occurs in areas with a lot of sebaceous glands such as the scalp, face, and upper trunk. It can appear at any age, even in infants. Indirect evidence supports a pathogenetic role for the Malassezia yeast. Symptoms can range from dandruff of the scalp to more widespread involvement characterized by red plaques and white to greasy yellow scales. It is treated with ciclopirox, ketoconazole, and topical steroids.

Eczema

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin disease that occurs in children and adults. Features of atopic dermatitis include skin dryness, redness, oozing, and crusting. Treatment is aimed at repairing the skin barrier. We recommend gentle skincare precautions including scent-free, dye-free soaps and moisturizers; frequent moisturizers and emollients; topical steroids, and sometimes non-steroidal medications.

Allergic and irritant dermatitis

There are two types of contact dermatitis: allergic and irritant. Irritant contact dermatitis is a localized, inflammatory skin response to myriad of chemical or physical agents. It is also the most common of the two. In fact, occupational contact dermatitis is the most frequent cause of hand eczema. It is highest among those who wash their hands often, such as food handlers, healthcare workers, mechanical industry workers, and housekeepers. Prevention is important with barrier agents and gloves to prevent exposure to irritants. Treatment includes topical steroids and moisturizing.

Stasis dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is very common inflammatory dermatosis of the lower extremities occurring in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. Patients with stasis dermatitis often have varicose veins, lower extremity swelling, pigment changes, and/or ulcerations. Treatment is geared toward treating the underlying venous hypertension such as weight reduction, walking, compression hose, leg elevation, etc. The dermatitis is treated with occlusive dressings, topical steroids, and preventing cellulitis.

Asteatotic eczema

Asteatotic eczema is a type of itchy dermatitis that typically occurs on the lower extremities of older people with dry skin. It's more common in the winter months and dry, cold weather and central heating are well-known exacerbating factors. Treatment includes topical steroids and frequent moisturizers.

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by many itchy, coin-shaped lesions that are red and scaly. Nummular eczema can affect people of all ages. Treatment is sensitive skin and bath and laundry precautions, topical steroids, moisturizers, etc.

Dyshidrotic eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is an intensely itchy, chronic, recurrent dermatitis characterized by small vesicles involving the palms and soles. Treatment includes topical and/or oral steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, etc.