Dermatitis on the legs: symptoms, types and causes

Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that develops at the site of direct action of an external physical or chemical factor. Dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen. Below is what is known about the symptoms, types and causes of this inflammation.

What dermatitis on the legs is

In a narrow sense, dermatitis is the skin's reaction to direct contact with an irritant or allergen; for clarity, doctors use the term "contact dermatitis." In a broader sense, the term refers to any inflammation of the skin, including atopic dermatitis. Eczema is a general name for a group of conditions in which the skin becomes dry and irritated. Contact dermatitis usually resolves or disappears completely once the causative factor is identified and removed.

How dermatitis manifests on the feet, soles and toes

The skin becomes itchy, develops blisters, dries out and cracks. On light skin, redness appears; on dark skin, dark brown, purple or gray tones appear. The reaction usually occurs several hours or days after contact with the irritant or allergen. The rash can appear on any part of the body, but the hands and face are most often affected. The same symptoms can appear on any part of the body, including the legs.

Types of dermatitis on the legs: contact, allergic, atopic

Simple (irritant) dermatitis develops quickly when a substance directly damages the outer layer of the skin. Allergic dermatitis is a delayed-type inflammatory reaction caused by the action of sensitized lymphocytes; it is less common. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema, often hereditary and associated with asthma and hay fever. Varicose eczema is distinguished separately: it affects mainly the lower part of the legs and is caused by impaired blood flow in the veins.

• Irritant contact dermatitis — direct damage to the skin by a substance.
• Allergic contact dermatitis — an immune response to an allergen.
• Atopic dermatitis — a hereditary form of eczema.
• Varicose eczema — a consequence of problems with the veins of the legs.

Causes: shoes, socks, contact with substances, allergens

Contact dermatitis is most often caused by irritants: soaps and detergents, solvents, regular contact with water. The allergic form can be triggered by substances in cosmetics, certain metals, including nickel, as well as contact with raw vegetables and fruits. Simple dermatitis is caused by mechanical irritants, high and low temperatures, UV rays, and electric current. On the legs, contact with an irritant or allergen is possible, for example with metals such as nickel.

How dermatitis differs from fungal infection and other skin diseases

A rash is a symptom of many different medical problems, not a separate diagnosis. It is necessary to determine which type of rash is present before starting treatment. Some rashes appear immediately, others form over several days; most resolve quickly, but some are long-lasting and require prolonged observation. For a severe or persistent rash, as well as if other symptoms appear, you should consult a doctor.

How it is diagnosed and when to see a doctor

For persistent, recurring or severe symptoms, consult a doctor: they will try to identify the cause and suggest appropriate testing. A referral to a dermatologist is made if the substance causing the dermatitis cannot be identified or the symptoms do not respond to treatment. The nature of the rash and its connection with contacts are assessed, and additional tests are performed if necessary.

Inflammation of the skin on the legs is not in itself a reason to call an ambulance. You should call 103 or 112 if the condition is life-threatening: for example, with signs of life-threatening conditions such as stroke, heart attack, or serious injury.

This material is for reference: it helps to understand what is happening with the skin, but does not replace a doctor's consultation — the diagnosis and examination strategy are determined by a specialist.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer