dermatitis

noun

der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtī-təs 

plural dermatitides ˌdər-mə-ˈti-tə-ˌdēz  or dermatitises

: inflammation of the skin

Did you know?

Dermatitis usually appears as a rash, and may cause itching, blisters, swelling, and often scabbing and scaling. It often marks an allergic reaction of some kind. Contact dermatitis is caused by something (often a chemical) touching the skin. Atopic dermatitis usually affects the insides of the elbows, the backs of the knees, and the face; generally resulting from an inherited sensitivity, it's often triggered by inhaling something. Eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff are all forms of dermatitis. Even in the worst cases, dermatitis isn't infectious and doesn't produce serious health consequences.

Examples of dermatitis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Those dealing with scalp conditions such as psoriasis, folliculitis, or seborrheic dermatitis may experience worsened irritation and visible flakiness that, beyond being visually distracting, can be quite uncomfortable. —Tayler Adigun, Essence, 9 Oct. 2024

One of the most common causes of hair loss—that is indirectly associated with infrequent shampooing—is seborrheic dermatitis. —Philipp Wehsack, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2024

It is characterized by the onset of uveitis, granulomatous dermatitis, and arthritis. —Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 2024

Try calamine lotion: Applying calamine lotion can ease itching and discomfort from contact dermatitis and insect stings. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 12 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

dermatitis

noun

der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtīt-əs 

plural dermatitides -ˈtit-ə-ˌdēz  or dermatitises

: inflammation of the skin

Medical Definition

dermatitis

noun

der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtīt-əs 

plural dermatitises or dermatitides -ˈtit-ə-ˌdēz 

: inflammation of the skin

called also dermitis

dermatitic

-ˈtit-ik 

adjective