Eczema Health Article

Definition

Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes.

Alternative Names

Infantile eczema; Atopic dermatitis; Dermatitis - atopic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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 have a leather-like texture.

Eczema is most common in infants. The condition tends to run in families.

People with eczema often have a family history of allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or eczema.

The following can make eczema symptoms worse:

• Dry skin
• Exposure to environmental irritants
• Exposure to water
• Stress
• Temperature changes

Symptoms

• Blisters with oozing and crusting
• Dry, leathery skin areas
• Ear discharge or bleeding
• Intense itching
• Rash
  • In children younger than age 2, skin lesions begin on the cheeks, elbows, or knees
  • In adults, the rash is more commonly seen on the inside of the knees and elbows
• Raw areas of the skin from scratching
• Skin coloring changes -- more or less coloring than the normal skin tone (See: Skin abnormally dark or light)
• Skin redness or inflammation around the blisters