Dermatitis is a general term that refers to skin inflammation. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, irritants, and infections.
Allergies are the most common cause of dermatitis. Allergic reactions can be caused by contact with an allergen, such as a food, pollen, latex, or certain chemicals. The allergen triggers an immune response and the skin becomes irritated and inflamed. Symptoms may include redness, itching, swelling, and blisters.
Irritants are another common cause of dermatitis. Irritants can be anything that causes an inflammatory reaction on the skin, such as certain soaps, detergents, solvents, or other chemicals. The skin may become red, itchy, and irritated.
Infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, can also cause dermatitis. Bacterial infections may cause a red, swollen rash that may ooze or crust over. Fungal infections may cause a red, itchy rash with scaling or blisters.
Finally, certain medications or medical conditions can cause dermatitis. Certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and other medications can cause a skin rash. Additionally, medical conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and autoimmune disorders can cause skin inflammation.
In conclusion, there are many potential causes of dermatitis. Allergies, irritants, infections, medications, and medical conditions can all trigger an inflammatory response in the skin, leading to dermatitis.