The difference between neurodermatitis and allergic dermatitis

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 23, 2024
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Neurodermatitis, also known as chronic simple lichen, is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by paroxysmal severe itching and lichenoid skin changes. Its main causes may be related to various internal and external factors such as neuropsychiatric factors, gastrointestinal dysfunction, endocrine disorders, diet, and local skin irritation. It commonly occurs on the neck, elbows, lumbosacral area, inner thighs, perineum, and around the anus. The skin lesions are characterized by pinpoint or rice grain-sized polygonal flat papules that are pale red, tan, or normal skin color, with a hard and glossy texture. They may be covered with a small amount of scale and, over time, can merge into large plaques, leading to thickened, rough skin with lichenoid changes.

Allergic dermatitis is an hypersensitivity reaction skin disease caused by contact with various allergens, characterized by diverse skin lesions such as erythema, papules, vesicles, swelling, and itching, which can occur all over the body. However, localized allergic dermatitis, if treated improperly or not treated in a timely manner, or due to repeated scratching, can potentially develop into neurodermatitis.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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How to treat alcoholic dermatitis?

Alcohol allergy has caused dermatitis, presenting an allergic reaction with symptoms such as rash, generalized itching, and dizziness. Oral administration of loratadine or levocetirizine tablets can be used for anti-allergy treatment. If the rash is severe and covers a large area, an external application of calamine lotion can be used, which has anti-allergic and astringent effects. If oral medication is less effective, intravenous administration of calcium gluconate and high doses of vitamin C can be considered, along with the addition of dexamethasone for anti-allergy treatment, which generally provides relief. At the same time, it is necessary to avoid alcohol and try to eliminate it from the body, which can be facilitated by inducing vomiting or using laxatives to prevent reabsorption that could worsen the dermatitis or cause chronic issues. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is allergic dermatitis contagious?

Allergic dermatitis is a common skin disease, which is an inflammatory skin disease caused by contact with allergens. So, is allergic dermatitis contagious? It is not contagious. This disease can cause itchy skin, formation of vesicles or papules, redness, or swelling. Once symptoms appear, it is recommended to treat with anti-allergic medication. Also, it is important to avoid contact with allergens again, eat a light diet, and ensure adequate rest.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What is eczematous dermatitis?

Eczematous dermatitis is a manifestation of dermatitis, with the main clinical manifestations being millet-sized papules, vesicopustules, or vesicles on the skin, accompanied by erythema that can merge into patchy areas. Frequent scratching can lead to exudation, erosion, secondary infection, and in severe cases, the formation of pustules and crusts. Eczematous dermatitis is a type of allergic skin disease. It is usually necessary to identify the specific allergens involved. One can visit a hospital to check for allergens and then undergo treatment with antihistamines as directed by a doctor. If there is significant exudation, topical treatment can include wet dressings with lactic acid, ichthammol solution, or boric acid solution. Treatment can also be supplemented with traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine combined, based on differential diagnosis.

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Written by Zhang Yin Xing
Obstetrics
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How to treat eczema dermatitis in pregnant women?

Pregnant women's eczema is a relatively common disease during pregnancy. Eczema is a rash-like change in the skin that occurs after pregnancy. First, we must exclude a pregnancy-specific disease called cholestasis of pregnancy. Cholestasis of pregnancy primarily manifests as skin itching, starting initially in the palms and soles of the feet and can spread to various parts of the body, with abdominal itching being the most severe. It differs from eczema mainly in that eczema usually involves changes in the skin, but the itching from cholestasis of pregnancy does not show obvious changes on the skin surface. If cholestasis of pregnancy is excluded, we can manage the condition based on the dermatologist's advice. For mild cases, some topical medications, such as calamine lotion, can be used without significant effects on the baby. If the eczema is severe or even affects sleep, sedative medications may be used before bedtime, or some oral antihistamines can help treat the condition. (Please follow the doctor's prescription when taking any medication.)

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How to cure allergic dermatitis?

To cure allergic dermatitis, the first step is to identify the allergen. Once identified, you can avoid it and use medication in combination, which can completely cure this type of dermatitis. When allergic dermatitis occurs, it is crucial to actively eliminate the allergen and supplement with oral antihistamine medications, as well as traditional Chinese medicine. Treatment should involve a combination of Chinese and Western medicine. Allergic dermatitis must be detected and treated early. Treating this allergy-related skin disease in its mild stages can prevent recurrence. It is also important to persist with medication under a doctor's guidance, as stopping medication midway through treatment or due to fear of side effects can lead to a relapse. For those suffering from allergic dermatitis, diet should also be considered; avoid seafood, shellfish, and spicy or irritating foods.