Dermatitis refers to irritated, red, itchy skin. It is not contagious, nor is it life-threatening, but it is very uncomfortable and affects about one in every five people at some time in their lives.
The terms dermatitis and eczema are often used interchangeably. There are two basic kinds of dermatitis:
- Acute eczema (or dermatitis): a rapidly evolving red rash which may be blistered and swollen.
- Chronic eczema (or dermatitis): a longstanding irritable area. It is often darker than the surrounding skin, thickened (lichenified) and much scratched.
Psychological stresses can provoke or aggravate dermatitis, presumably by suppressing normal immune mechanisms.
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