MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Exfoliative dermatitis

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Exfoliative dermatitis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Definition References

Illustrations

Skin layers

Alternative Names Return to top

Erythroderma; Dermatitis exfoliativa; Pityriasis rubra

Definition Return to top

Exfoliative dermatitis is widespread scaling of the skin, often with itching (pruritus), skin redness (erythroderma), and hair loss. It may occur in severe cases of many common skin conditions, include eczema, psoriasis, and allergic reactions.

References Return to top

Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby, Inc. 2004: 491.

Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2005:491.

Update Date: 5/3/2006

Updated by: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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