Dermatitis Clinical Case Presentation Outline
Dermatitis Clinical Case Presentation Outline
Dermatitis Clinical Case Presentation Outline
PRESENTATION PROPER
Introduction
Often, it is said that the integumentary system is the first line of defense
against pathogenic substances and organisms, especially
microorganisms—fungi, bacteria, and the likes—which, although tiny, can
completely overhaul the homeostatic equilibrium of the body’s systems.
The skin, its most prominent organ, can additionally be a good indicator
of internal imbalances, such as when it changes color, itches, or alters
texture. Such is the indication of dermatitis—inflammation of the skin that
can have various causes and forms.
Dermatitis primarily affects the skin, which is the body's largest organ and
is lined with stratified squamous epithelium. However, the effects of
dermatitis can extend beyond the epithelial layer and involve other skin
components, such as the underlying connective tissue, blood vessels, and
immune cells.
In dermatitis, the inflammatory response typically starts in the skin's outer
layers (epidermis) and can extend into the deeper layers (dermis). This
can lead to various symptoms, including redness, itching, swelling, and
sometimes the formation of blisters or lesions.
While the primary site of inflammation is the skin, severe or chronic
dermatitis can have systemic effects. For example, persistent itching and
scratching can lead to skin infections, and the chronic inflammation
associated with conditions like atopic dermatitis can affect a person's
overall health and well-being.
Types and Risk 1. Contact Dermatitis. This occurs when the skin comes into
Factors contact with an irritant (irritant contact dermatitis) or an allergen
(allergic contact dermatitis). It triggers an inflammatory response
in the skin, leading to the characteristic symptoms.
● Irritants: Contact with irritants like soaps, detergents,
cleaning products, or chemicals can cause irritant contact
dermatitis.
● Allergens: Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin
reacts to allergenic substances like certain metals (nickel),
cosmetics, or latex.
● Occupation: Jobs that involve frequent contact with
irritants or allergens increase the risk of occupational
contact dermatitis.
2. Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema. Atopic dermatitis is often associated
with a genetic predisposition and an abnormal immune response. It
involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and
immune factors.
● Family History: A family history of atopic dermatitis,
asthma, or allergic rhinitis increases the risk.
● Allergies: Individuals with allergies, especially to certain
foods, pollen, or animal dander, are at a higher risk.
● Environmental Allergens: Exposure to allergens like dust
mites, mold, or pet dander can trigger atopic dermatitis.
● Climate: Dry or cold climates can exacerbate symptoms.
● Stress: Psychological stress can worsen symptoms.
3. Seborrheic Dermatitis. This is linked to an overgrowth of yeast
on the skin's surface and increased sebum production. It
commonly affects areas with a high density of sebaceous glands,
like the scalp and face.
● Age: Infants and adults between the ages of 30 and 60 are
more prone.
● Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during
puberty or with certain medical conditions, can trigger
seborrheic dermatitis.
● Oily Skin: Excessive oil production on the skin's surface is
a contributing factor.
● Yeast: The presence of a yeast called Malassezia on the
skin can worsen seborrheic dermatitis.
4. Nummular Dermatitis. The exact cause is unclear, but it's
believed to involve skin dryness, irritation, or an immune reaction.
Also called discoid eczema, it features scattered, circular, often
itchy and sometimes oozing patches.
● Dry Skin: People with naturally dry skin or those living in
dry climates are at a higher risk.
● Cold Weather: Winter weather can exacerbate symptoms.
● Hot Showers: Taking long, hot showers can dry out the
skin and increase the risk.
5. Perioral Dermatitis. Perioral dermatitis is a facial skin condition
that typically affects the area around the mouth, including the lips
and sometimes the eyes or nose. It appears as red, bumpy, or
pimple-like rashes and can be itchy or uncomfortable. This
condition is often linked to the use of topical steroids, certain
cosmetics, or dental products.
Topical Steroids: Prolonged use of topical steroids on the face is a
risk factor.
● Cosmetics: Use of certain cosmetics or dental products can
contribute.
● Oral Contraceptives: Some cases have been linked to the
use of birth control pills.
6. Diaper Dermatitis Commonly known as diaper rash, it presents
as red, inflamed, and sometimes raised patches on the baby's
buttocks, genitals, or thighs. This condition is typically caused by
prolonged exposure to wet diapers, friction, or contact with urine
and feces.
● Infancy: Infants are at risk due to prolonged exposure to
wet diapers.
● Chafing: Friction and chafing can contribute.
● Irritants: Exposure to urine or feces can cause irritation.
Prevention Identify and Avoid Triggers: For contact dermatitis, identify and
avoid irritants or allergens that cause the reaction. This may
involve changes in personal care products, detergents, or
work-related exposures.
Skin Hydration: Keeping the skin well-moisturized can help
prevent dermatitis, especially in dry climates.
Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen dermatitis. Keep nails
short, and consider wearing cotton gloves at night to prevent
scratching during sleep.
Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dermatitis. Stress reduction
techniques like meditation or yoga may be helpful.
Clinical Case: ➔ Patient was 3 years old at the time of investigation in 2021
Introduction of ➔ Male
the Patient ➔ Born August
➔ Lives in Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
Clinical Case:
Prevention/Treat
ment Methods
REFERENCES
Contact dermatitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic. (2023, April 25). Mayo Clinic.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/contact-dermatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-
20352742
Eczema and Dermatitis: Overview and more. (2023, February 23). Verywell Health.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/eczema-and-dermatitis-4013571
National Eczema Association. (2023, September 22). 7 Types of eczema: Symptoms, causes &
treatment. https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/
Wang, M., Liang, X., Sun, B., & Huang, H. (2021). Atopic Dermatitis: a Case Report of a
3-year-old Food Allergy Child Sensitive to Multiple Allergens. Research Square
(Research Square). https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-146700/v1