Spongiotic dermatitis is a usually uncomfortable dermatological condition which most often affects the skin of the chest, abdomen, and buttocks. Also sometimes referred to as acute eczema, spongiotic dermatitis causes outbreaks of small, itchy red blisters which can ooze and scar when scratched. Outbreaks of the condition, which can affect both children and adults, are usually brought on by exposure to an allergen. Treatment typically involves determining which substance has caused the outbreak and eliminating exposure to it, as well using anti-inflammatory creams to soothe the skin.
The most prominent characteristic of this type of dermatitis is a rash of small, red blisters which appears on the skin of the chest, midsection, buttocks, or a combination of these. This rash is usually accompanied by mild to intense itchiness. Scratching the rash, while tempting, should be avoided, as it can cause the blisters to break, ooze, and become crusted. This, in turn, can lead to increased itchiness, pain, and even permanent scarring.
Generally, outbreaks of spongiotic dermatitis are brought on by exposure to an allergen to which an individual has a particular sensitivity. The list of substances which may be at fault is long, and a substance which causes an onset of the condition in one person may cause no reaction in another. Potential allergens can include certain foods, cleaning products, soaps, perfumes, medications, cigarette smoke, or insect bites.
Due to the fact this condition can be caused by exposure to a wide range of allergens, it can be difficult to determine what has led to an outbreak. Often, the only way to pinpoint the allergen in question is through process of elimination. In other words, those suffering from an outbreak should make a note of any new substances they may have been exposed to shortly before their rash appeared. They should then eliminate exposure to each substance one by one, allowing time after each elimination to determine whether the rash improves. Note that multiple substances may cause spongiotic dermatitis in the same individual.
In addition to pinpointing and eliminating the rash-causing allergen, treatment for spongiotic dermatitis may include the use of anti-inflammatory creams to soothe the skin and ease itching. Mild versions of these creams are generally available over the counter, while stronger formulations may require a doctor’s prescription. Additionally, those suffering from an outbreak of the condition may wish to combat itchiness by wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and bathing in warm water to which a small amount of dry oatmeal has been added.