Definition - What does Dermatitis mean?
Dermatitis is a general term that describes inflammation of the skin. Typically, the skin will appear dry, swollen, flaky, and red. Symptoms like itchiness and swelling may also develop. Dermatitis is not contagious.
Safeopedia explains Dermatitis
There are two main types of dermatitis: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.
Irritant contact dermatitis can occur immediately after contact with a strong irritant (if the skin is exposed to a weak irritant, symptoms could take longer to appear). Irritants can be chemical, biological, mechanical, or physical. Some of the more common irritants found in workplace settings include oils and greases, solvents, and dust.
Allergic contact dermatitis differs from irritant contact dermatitis because it is an allergic response to skin contact with an allergen, such as certain plants, dyes, or adhesives. This type of dermatitis can occur in areas on the body that did not come in direct contact with the allergen.