What term is used for allergic inflammation of the skin?

Dermatitis is a term that specifically refers to inflammation of the skin, which can be triggered by various factors, including allergic reactions. When the skin reacts to allergens, it can become red, swollen, and itchy, characteristic of the condition known as allergic dermatitis.

While eczema is often used interchangeably with dermatitis, eczema can refer to specific types of dermatitis, particularly those that are chronic and often associated with asthma or hay fever. Still, dermatitis is the broader term that encompasses all types of skin inflammation, which may or may not be due to allergies.

Although a rash is a general term that describes any visible skin eruption or discoloration, it is not specific to allergic inflammation. Psoriasis is a distinct condition characterized by red, scaly patches due to rapid skin cell turnover, which is autoimmune rather than allergic.

Therefore, dermatitis is the most accurate term for allergic inflammation of the skin, encompassing the necessary characteristics of this condition.