| Dermatitis is a congenital skin
condition.
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It is an inflammatory condition of the skin caused by outside
agents.
(Contrast this with eczema, an endogenous disease in which
outside
agents do NOT play a primary role).
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Primary irritant dermatitis may occur in anyone who
has sufficient contact with irritants such as acids, alkalis,
solvents and (especially) detergents.
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Primary irritant dermatitis is the commonest cause of occupational
dermatitis in hairdressers, nurses, cooks etc..
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In the case of allergic contact dermatitis skin changes
resembling those of eczema develop as a delayed reaction
to contact with a particular allergen, which may be present
at low concentrations.
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The commonest example of allergic contact dermatitis in
women is nickel dermatitis due to the metal nickel
used in jewellery, jeans studs etc, whereas
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In men chromium dermatitis is relatively common.
Treatment of dermatitis depends on removing the cause, which is
not always possible.
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Dermititis herpetiformis is an uncommon very itchy
rash with symmetrical blistering, especially on the knees,
elbows, buttocks and shoulders. It is related to sensitivity
to gluten.
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For more information about other skin problems, see the page about Skin
Conditions and Disorders.
This may interest students of massage, reflexology,
beauty therapies, or other health or clinical courses.
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