dermatitis

noun

der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtī-təs How to pronounce dermatitis (audio)
plural dermatitides ˌdər-mə-ˈti-tə-ˌdēz How to pronounce dermatitis (audio) or dermatitises
: inflammation of the skin

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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 Pityriasis alba is a minor form of eczema (atopic dermatitis) that appears as scaly hypopigmentation. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 24 July 2024 Psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy may improve certain skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Hannah Seo, The Atlantic, 10 July 2024 Dandruff is a milder form of a common condition called seborrheic dermatitis. Bebe Hodges, USA TODAY, 25 Apr. 2024 How to prevent seborrheic dermatitis Flaking, itching and redness caused by seborrheic dermatitis can affect the scalp, beard area and even under your eyebrows. Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 11 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for dermatitis 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'dermatitis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dermatitis was in 1876

Dictionary Entries Near dermatitis

Cite this Entry

“Dermatitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dermatitis. Accessed 11 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

dermatitis

noun
der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtīt-əs How to pronounce dermatitis (audio)
plural dermatitides -ˈtit-ə-ˌdēz How to pronounce dermatitis (audio) or dermatitises
: inflammation of the skin

Medical Definition

dermatitis

noun
der·​ma·​ti·​tis ˌdər-mə-ˈtīt-əs How to pronounce dermatitis (audio)
plural dermatitises or dermatitides -ˈtit-ə-ˌdēz How to pronounce dermatitis (audio)
: inflammation of the skin

called also dermitis

dermatitic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on dermatitis

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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