dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
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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
Team Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2025
One study found that about 30% of people with atopic dermatitis may have a soy allergy.
—Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 30 Mar. 2025
Tallow can also trigger dermatitis or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
—Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 14 Mar. 2025
My message to them: Scratching is a symptom of atopic dermatitis, not a cause.
—Andy Collinson, Health, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for dermatitis
Cite this Entry
“Dermatitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dermatitis. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
Medical Definition
dermatitis
noun
called also dermitis
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