Etymed
dermatitis
Definition
inflammation of the skin
Clinical context
A 35-year-old nurse presents with red, itchy, and cracked skin on both hands that has worsened over the past two weeks. She reports increased exposure to soap and sanitizers at work. Physical examination reveals erythematous, fissured palms with no systemic symptoms. The diagnosis of contact dermatitis is made based on the clinical presentation and history of irritant exposure.
Mnemonic
DERMATITIS = Dermal inflammation with redness, itching, and tissue irritation