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

People with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, don’t always get adequate relief from topical treatments like steroid creams and ointments. —Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 17 Sep. 2024

Specific strains of probiotics may help improve atopic dermatitis (eczema) in the short term, but more studies are needed.3 Mastitis. —Lainey Younkin, Ms, Rd, Health, 16 Sep. 2024

Some people may experience dermatitis (skin inflammation) when using arbutin. —Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 13 Sep. 2024

Amin notes that the ingredient has been found helpful treating seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) and also plays an important role in wound healing. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 Aug. 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