Dermatosis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Dermatosis is a general term used to describe any skin defect or lesion on the skin. It is not synonymous with Dermatitis, which implies inflammation of the skin, but can coexist with it. Dermatosis can be acute or chronic and may have a variety of causes, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Causes of Dermatosis[edit | edit source]

Dermatosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Genetic factors: Some forms of dermatosis are hereditary and can be passed down from parents to their children.
  • Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as sunlight, chemicals, or allergens, can cause dermatosis.
  • Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as diet, stress, and lack of sleep, can also contribute to the development of dermatosis.

Types of Dermatosis[edit | edit source]

There are many different types of dermatosis, including:

  • Seborrheic dermatitis: This is a common skin condition that mainly affects the scalp, causing scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff.
  • Atopic dermatitis: Also known as eczema, this is a condition that makes the skin red and itchy.
  • Contact dermatitis: This is a skin rash caused by contact with a certain substance.
  • Stasis dermatitis: This is a skin irritation on the lower legs, generally related to circulatory problems.

Treatment of Dermatosis[edit | edit source]

Treatment for dermatosis depends on the type and severity of the condition. Some common treatments include:

  • Topical treatments: These are creams, ointments, or lotions applied directly to the skin.
  • Systemic treatments: These are oral or injectable drugs that work throughout the body.
  • Phototherapy: This is a treatment that uses ultraviolet light to treat certain skin conditions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Dermatosis Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD