Skin inflammation that primarily involves the papillary layer is termed:

• A. Cellulitis
• B. Epidermitis
• C. Dermatitis
• D. Papillitis

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the skin: The skin is composed of three main layers—epidermis (outermost layer), dermis (middle layer), and hypodermis (innermost layer). The dermis itself is divided into two layers: the papillary layer (upper portion) and the reticular layer (lower portion).
2. Identify the papillary layer: The papillary layer is the upper part of the dermis, located directly beneath the epidermis. It contains capillaries, nerve endings, and connective tissue, and plays a role in supplying nutrients to the epidermis and regulating temperature.
3. Define inflammation: Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain. When inflammation specifically affects the papillary layer, it is localized to this upper portion of the dermis.
4. Analyze the term 'Papillitis': The suffix '-itis' refers to inflammation. 'Papillitis' specifically refers to inflammation of the papillary layer of the dermis, making it the correct term for skin inflammation primarily involving this layer.
5. Compare other options: Cellulitis refers to bacterial infection of the deeper dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Epidermitis refers to inflammation of the epidermis. Dermatitis is a general term for skin inflammation but does not specify the papillary layer. Papillitis is the most precise term for inflammation of the papillary layer.