Definition
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes. Eczema is also called atopic dermatitis.
Symptoms
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Definition
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes. Eczema is also called atopic dermatitis.
Causes
Eczema is due to a hypersensitivity reaction (similar to an allergy ) in the skin, which leads to long-term inflammation. The inflammation causes the skin to become itchy and scaly. Long-term irritation and scratching can cause the skin to thicken and an have a leather-like texture.
Eczema is most common in infants, and at least half of those cases clear by age 3. In adults, it is generally a long-term or recurring condition. Eczema tends to run in families.
People with eczema often have a family history of allergic conditions like asthma , hay fever , or eczema.
The following can make eczema symptoms worse:
- Dry skin
- Exposure to environmental irritants
- Exposure to water
- Stress
- Temperature changes
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Treatment
Treatment may vary depending on the appearance (stage) of the lesions -- acute "weeping" lesions, dry scaly lesions, or chronic dry, thickened lesions are each treated differently.
Avoid anything that makes the symptoms worse. This may include food allergens and irritants such as wool and lanolin.
Dry skin often makes the condition worse. When washing or bathing, keep water contact as brief as possible and use less soap than usual. After bathing, it is important to trap the moisture in the skin by applying lubricating cream on the skin while it is damp. Temperature changes and stress may cause sweating and aggravate the condition.
Treatment of weeping lesions may include soothing moisturizers, mild soaps, or wet dressings.
Mild anti-itch lotions or topical corticosteroids (low potency) ...
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Other Names
Infantile eczema; Atopic dermatitis; Dermatitis - atopic
Possible Complications
- Bacterial infections of the skin
- Permanent scars
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Eczema is a chronic condition, but it may be controlled with treatment and by avoiding iirritants. In many cases, eczema in younger persons disappears by early adulthood.
Prevention
Studies have shown that children who are breast-fed are less likely to get eczema. This is also true when the nursing mother has avoided cow's milk in her diet. Other dietary restrictions may include eggs, fish, peanuts, and soy.
Eczema tends to run in families. Control of stress , nervousness, anxiety , and depression can be beneficial in some cases.
Exams and Tests
Diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin and on personal and family history. The health care provider should examine the lesions to rule out other possible causes. A skin lesion biopsy may be performed, but is not always required to make the diagnosis.
References
Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology . 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004:41.
Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine , 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:2458-2460.
