Dermatitis

Introduction

Dermatitis is characterized by sore, red, itching skin.

In primary care, the two most common forms of dermatitis are irritant and allergic dermatitis.

Management

Most cases of mild-to-moderate atopic eczema, irritant and allergic dermatitis should respond to skin care and treatment with OTC products.

• Emollients are the key to managing eczema.
• These preparations should be thought of as indefinite treatment and to be used as often as needed to keep the skin hydrated and moist.
• To avoid the drying effects of soap, a soap substitute should be used.
• Topical corticosteroids
• Patient should be instructed to use a fingertip unit.
• Topical corticosteroids should be applied liberally, not sparingly, to areas of inflamed skin until the skin is completely clear.
• Patients and parents should be reassured that the benefits outweigh the harms and they should not be afraid to use them.
• Antihistamines
• Antihistamines have limited therapeutic benefit for most type of dermatitis. However, a sedating antihistamine at bedtime may improve sleep in an itchy patient.
• Avoidance of aggravating or precipitating factors.
• May refer to a dermatologist for patch testing.
• Sweating intensified the itching, so strategies to keep the person cool will help; cotton and loose-fitting clothing can be worn.

External Links

• Eczema and Exercise, 2021
  
• Oral H1 antihistamines as 'add-on' therapy to topical treatment for eczema, 2019