MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Exfoliative dermatitis

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Exfoliative dermatitis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names	Definition

Illustrations

Skin layers

Alternative names Return to top

Erythroderma; Dermatitis exfoliativa; Pityriasis rubra

Definition Return to top

Exfoliative dermatitis is a common clinical condition of multiple skin disorders. The condition is characterized by widespread scaling, often with itching (pruritus), skin redness (erythroderma), and hair loss.

Update Date: 4/20/2004

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

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