dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
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
Dahlia Rimmon, Parents, 24 June 2024
Avène Avène’s history dates back to the 18th century in the namesake south of France town, where thermal spring baths were utilized to treat patients with skin conditions from dermatitis to eczema and psoriasis.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 June 2024
Atopic Dermatitis Prevalence Is on the Rise Atopic dermatitis is a chronic disease that causes dry, itchy skin.
—Becky Upham, EverydayHealth.com, 12 June 2024
In people with sensitive skin, antiperspirants can cause irritant dermatitis: inflammation and itchiness at the area where the sweat glands are blocked.
—Sara Novak, Scientific American, 10 June 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.
Dictionary Entries Near dermatitis
Cite this Entry
“Dermatitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dermatitis. Accessed 7 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
dermatitis
noun
or dermatitises
Medical Definition
dermatitis
noun
called also dermitis
Share