What is the primary characteristic of dermatitis?

The primary characteristic of dermatitis is inflammation of the skin. This condition can manifest itself in several ways, including redness, swelling, heat, and sometimes pain or itching. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or irritants, and in the case of dermatitis, it occurs as a reaction to factors such as allergens, irritants, or underlying health issues. This inflammatory response is central to the diagnosis and understanding of dermatitis, as it reflects the skin's reaction to various stimuli.

While other options describe symptoms or conditions that may co-occur with dermatitis, they do not capture its defining feature. For instance, increased skin pigmentation can happen due to various skin conditions or sun exposure but is not specific to dermatitis. Dry and flaky skin can be a symptom of dermatitis but is not exclusive to it, as many other skin issues can present with similar characteristics. Excessive sweating, while it might affect skin health, is not a characteristic of dermatitis either. Therefore, inflammation stands out as the primary and defining characteristic of this condition.