Eczema
Pronounced: EGG-zeh-mah
(Atopic Dermatitis)
Definition |
Causes |
Risk Factors |
Symptoms |
Diagnosis |
Treatment |
Prevention |
Organizations
Definition
Eczema is a chronic inflammation of the outer layers of the skin. Eczema is most common in infants and children, but it can also occur in adults. Eczema is not contagious.
Causes
The exact cause of eczema is unknown. Factors that may contribute to eczema include:
- Genetics
- Environment
- Allergies, such as hay fever, asthma, dust mite allergy, food allergies, or allergies to substances such as soap, lotions, or laundry detergent
- Stress
- Contact with irritating plants (such as red oak, poison ivy)
- Frequent handwashing
- Use of rubber gloves
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Constant nervous itching or rubbing of skin
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
- Age: 5 or younger
- Living in urban areas or places with low humidity
- History of allergies or asthma
- Having family members who have eczema or allergic disorders
Symptoms
The symptoms of eczema vary from person to person. Scratching and rubbing can cause or worsen some of the symptoms.
Symptoms include:
- Dry, itchy skin
- Cracks behind the ears
- Rashes on the cheeks, arms, and legs
- Red, scaly skin
- Thick, leathery skin
- Small, raised bumps on the skin
- Crusting, oozing, cracking, or scaling of the skin
- May worsen in the winter, when inside air is dry due to central heating
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders (a dermatologist) and/or allergies (an allergist).
Treatment
The main goals of eczema treatment are to:
- Heal the skin and keep it healthy
- Avoid skin infection
- Prevent flare-ups
- Treat symptoms when they occur
Treatment options may vary and your doctor may recommend more than one depending on your condition. They include:
Skin care
- Avoid hot or long (15 minutes or more) baths or showers.
- Use mild bar soap or nonsoap cleanser.
- Air-dry or gently pat dry after bathing and apply gentle moisturizer immediately.
- Treat skin infections immediately.
Medications
- Prescription creams and ointments containing cortisone
- Antibiotics applied directly to the skin or taken by mouth
- Prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines to help prevent itching
Phototherapy
- Treatment with ultraviolet light (by a doctor)
Prevention
It can be difficult to prevent eczema. But there are several things you can do to try to control it:
- Avoid scratching or rubbing whenever possible.
- Avoid substance to which you are allergic or sensitive.
- Protect skin from excess moisture, irritants, and rough clothing.
- Maintain a cool stable environment and consistent humidity levels.
- Avoid dust, cigarette smoke, pollen, and animal dander.
- Recognize and limit emotional stress.
Organizations
American Academy of Dermatology
http://www.aad.org
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
http://www.aaaai.org
SOURCES:
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
American Academy of Dermatology
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Last reviewed June 2001 by Medical Review Board
