Slide show: Types of dermatitis

Dermatitis — an inflammation of the skin — usually appears as swollen, red and itchy skin. It has many causes and occurs in many forms, including contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis isn't life-threatening or contagious, but it can be uncomfortable or even painful.

Though signs and symptoms vary from person to person, types of dermatitis are typically identified by their hallmark appearance. Here's a look at dermatitis pictures, showing classic signs and symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis include:

• Red rash or bumps
• Blisters and draining fluid from the involved skin in severe cases
• Itching, which may be severe
• Pain or tenderness

Contact dermatitis results from direct contact with certain substances called allergens. The resulting reaction is your body's response to the sensitive agent. Common allergens include rubber, costume jewelry, perfume, cosmetics, hair dyes and weeds, such as poison ivy.

Common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema) include:

• Red to brownish-gray colored patches
• Itching, which may be severe
• Small, raised bumps, which may leak fluid and crust over when scratched
• Thickened, cracked or scaly skin
• Raw, sensitive skin from scratching

Most often, atopic dermatitis occurs in the folds of the elbows, backs of the knees or the front of the neck. It tends to flare periodically and then subside for a time, even up to several years. The exact cause of this skin disorder is unknown.

Common signs and symptoms of irritant contact dermatitis include:

• Red rash or bumps
• Itching, which may be severe
• Dry, red patches, which may resemble a burn
• Skin rash limited to the exposed area
• Pain or tenderness

Irritant contact dermatitis results from repeated contact with a substance, such as soap, cosmetics or skin products, including deodorant, that irritates the skin.

Common signs and symptoms of neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus) include:

• Itchy skin in a single, limited area
• Leathery or scaly texture to the skin
• Raised, rough patch that is red or darker than the rest of your skin

Neurodermatitis occurs because of repeated scratching. Typically, neurodermatitis occurs on the scalp, neck, wrist, upper forearm and ankle.

Common signs and symptoms of perioral dermatitis include:

• Small red, pus-filled bumps
• Mild peeling

Perioral dermatitis usually affects the area around the mouth, but can also affect the areas around the nose, cheeks and eyes. The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown, but misuse of topical corticosteroids may play a role.

Common signs and symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis include:

• Patchy scaling or thick crusts on the scalp
• Yellow or white scales that may attach to the hair shaft
• Red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales
• Itching or soreness
• Skin flakes or dandruff

Seborrheic dermatitis is often found on oily areas of the body, such as the face, upper chest and back. Seborrheic dermatitis can also appear on the scalp as stubborn, itchy dandruff. For infants, it's known as cradle cap.

Common signs and symptoms of stasis dermatitis include:

• Skin discoloration (red or brown) on the ankles or shins
• Itching and redness
• Thickened skin
• Open sores or ulcers

Stasis dermatitis occurs when varicose veins or other circulatory conditions cause fluids to build up in the lower legs. The swelling produces pressure beneath the skin and prevents adequate blood and oxygen from reaching the skin. This causes the skin at your ankles and shins to become discolored, thick and itchy.