The difference between neurodermatitis and allergic dermatitis

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 23, 2024
00:00
00:00

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.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
58sec home-news-image

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.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
57sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
58sec home-news-image

Is eczema contagious?

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a particular type of eczema that overall falls under allergic diseases. It is related to individual allergic constitution, familial inheritance, and allergies to high-protein substances. This disease usually manifests in childhood and symptoms may decrease as one ages. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious; it cannot be spread through contact, sharing clothes, or living together. However, the treatment cycle for this condition is lengthy and challenging. It is crucial to seek proper treatment in the dermatology department of a reputable hospital. Allergy testing can be conducted followed by desensitization or medication treatment specific to the symptoms identified. After recovery, it is important to enhance physical exercise, strengthen immunity, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and refrain from staying up late.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
35sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
59sec home-news-image

How to treat insect bite dermatitis?

Insect bite dermatitis, medically also known as papular urticaria, generally presents with mild symptoms. It appears as a red welt with possible small blisters in the center. This type of dermatitis typically improves with the application of calamine lotion. For severe redness and pain, antiallergic medication such as loratadine can be taken, and topical corticosteroids may be applied. More severe symptoms may include blisters, erosion, and rupture. In such cases, it is advisable to seek treatment at a dermatology department of a formal hospital where the affected area can be cleaned with iodine and treated with infrared therapy, supplemented appropriately with oral traditional Chinese medicine that clears heat and detoxifies, such as Potentilla chinensis anti-inflammatory oral solution.