Definition

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, 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.

Eczema

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Causes

The exact cause of eczema is unknown. Factors that may contribute to eczema include:

• Genetics
• Environment
• Allergies—These may include allergies to things that touch the skin (such as wool or perfumes in soaps), allergies to dust mites (very common), or allergies to foods.
• Stress, especially if it leads to scratching
• Frequent washing of affected areas
• Use of rubber gloves in persons sensitive to latex
• Scratching or rubbing of skin

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Age: five years old or younger (eczema becomes less common after the ages of 5-10)
• Asthma, hay fever , or seasonal allergies
• Urban areas or places with low humidity
• Relatives who have eczema or allergic disorders
• Race: Black or Asian

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 or in other skin creases
• 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
• Worsening 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
• Stop scratching or rubbing
• Avoid skin infection
• Prevent flare-ups
• Learn to avoid scratching

Treatment options may vary and your doctor may recommend more than one depending on your condition. They include:

Prevention

It can be difficult to prevent eczema, particularly when there is a strong family history. Some studies suggest that breastfeeding reduces a child’s risk of developing eczema. But if you already have eczema, there are several things you can do to try to control it:

• Follow guidelines for limiting house dust mites in bedding.
• Avoid direct contact with wool to the skin.
• Seek advice from your doctor about any use of “natural” or herbal remedies. Some of these may worsen eczema.
• Avoid scratching or rubbing whenever possible.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment. Improvement may take several weeks or even months after a new medication is started.
• Maintain a cool stable environment and consistent humidity levels.
• Recognize and limit emotional stress.