Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, red, and inflamed patches of skin. Eczema can occur at any age but is most commonly seen in infants and young children. It is often associated with other allergic conditions, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and tends to run in families.
Symptoms: The symptoms of eczema can vary in severity and may include:
- Dry, sensitive skin
- Itching, which may be severe and worsen at night
- Red or brownish-gray patches of skin, especially on the hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, and inside the bend of elbows and knees
- Small, raised bumps that may ooze fluid and crust over when scratched
- Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin
- Skin discoloration or changes in pigmentation
- Raw, sensitive, or swollen skin from scratching
- Infected skin, with symptoms such as pain, pus, or yellow crusts
Causes: The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune system, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Potential triggers or factors that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of eczema include:
- Genetic predisposition: Family history or genetic factors may increase the risk of developing eczema.
- Immune system dysfunction: Eczema is considered an autoimmune or allergic condition, where the body’s immune system overreacts to triggers, leading to inflammation and irritation of the skin.
- Environmental triggers: Exposure to certain factors, such as irritants, allergens, dry air, cold weather, heat, sweat, stress, or hormonal changes, may trigger or exacerbate eczema in susceptible individuals.
- Skin barrier dysfunction: Eczema is associated with abnormalities in the skin barrier, which may impair the skin’s ability to retain moisture and protect against irritants and allergens.
Treatment: Treatment for eczema aims to relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, restore the skin barrier, and prevent flare-ups. Treatment options may include:
- Topical treatments: Topical medications, such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus or pimecrolimus), or phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (crisaborole), may be applied directly to the affected skin to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Moisturizers: Regular use of moisturizers, emollients, or barrier creams can help hydrate the skin, soothe irritation, and restore the skin barrier function.
- Avoidance of triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers, such as irritants, allergens, harsh soaps, fragrances, and tight-fitting clothing, may help prevent flare-ups and reduce symptoms.
- Phototherapy: Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet (UV) light, either in the form of natural sunlight or artificial UV lamps, to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in some cases of eczema.
- Oral or systemic medications: Oral antihistamines, oral corticosteroids, or systemic immunosuppressants may be prescribed in severe cases of eczema that do not respond to other treatments.
