Exfoliative dermatitis

Exfoliative Dermatitis is a skin disorder characterized by the widespread erythema and scaling of the skin. It is also known as Erythroderma. The condition can occur at any age and affects both sexes equally. It is often associated with pre-existing skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, and drug reactions.

Causes

Exfoliative dermatitis can be caused by a reaction to a variety of drugs, including penicillin, phenytoin, and sulfa drugs. It can also be caused by a severe form of psoriasis or eczema, or by a systemic disease such as Hodgkin's disease or leukemia.

Symptoms

The main symptom of exfoliative dermatitis is red, scaly skin over large areas of the body. The skin may also be itchy and painful. Other symptoms can include fever, chills, and weakness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of exfoliative dermatitis is based on the patient's medical history and a physical examination. Skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment of exfoliative dermatitis depends on the underlying cause. It may include discontinuing the offending drug, treating the underlying disease, or using medications to reduce inflammation and itching. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prognosis

The prognosis for exfoliative dermatitis varies depending on the underlying cause. With appropriate treatment, most people with this condition can expect to recover fully.

See Also

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Drug reactions
• Hodgkin's disease
• Leukemia

Exfoliative dermatitis Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia