Eczema

Definition

Eczema is a medical condition in which patches of skin become rough and inflamed

with blisters which cause itching and bleeding.

What Causes Eczema?

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to an irritant. It is this response that causes the symptoms of eczema.


In addition, eczema is commonly found in families with a history of other allergies or asthma. Also, defects in the skin barrier could allow moisture out and germs in.


Some people may have "flare-ups" of the itchy rash in response to certain substances or conditions. For some, coming into contact with rough or coarse materials may cause the skin to become itchy. For others, feeling too hot or too cold, exposure to certain household products like soap or detergent, or coming into contact with animal dander may cause an outbreak. Upper respiratory infections or colds may also be triggers. Stress may cause the condition to worsen.


Although there is no cure, most people can effectively manage their disease with medical treatment and by avoiding irritants. The condition is not contagious and can't be spread from person to person.

What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?

No matter which part of the skin is affected, eczema is almost always itchy. Sometimes the itching will start before the rash appears, but when it does, the rash most commonly appears on the face, back of the knees, wrists, hands, or feet. It may also affect other areas as well.


Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may initially appear reddish and then turn brown. Among darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, making the affected area lighter or darker.


In infants, the itchy rash can produce an oozing, crusting condition that happens mainly on the face and scalp, but patches may appear anywhere.

Skin Conditions and Eczema

How Is Eczema Treated?

The goal of treatment for eczema is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead toinfection. Since the disease makes skin dry and itchy, lotions and creams arerecommended to keep the skin moist. These products are usually applied when theskin is damp, such as after bathing, to help the skin retain moisture. Coldcompresses may also be used to relieve itching.


Over-the-counter products, such as hydrocortisone 1% cream, or prescriptioncreams and ointments containing corticosteroids, are often prescribed to lesseninflammation. In addition, if the affected area becomes infected, your doctor mayprescribe antibiotics to kill the infection-causing bacteria.


Other treatments include antihistamines to lessen severe itching, tar treatments(chemicals designed to reduce itching), phototherapy (therapy using ultraviolet lightapplied to the skin), and the drug cyclosporine for people whose condition doesn'trespond to other treatments.


The FDA has approved two drugs known as topical immunomodulators (TIMs) forthe treatment of mild-to-moderate eczema. The drugs, Elidel and Protopic, are skincreams that work by altering the immune system response to prevent flare-ups.


The FDA has warned doctors to prescribe Elidel and Protopic with caution due toconcerns over a possible cancer risk associated with their use. The two creamsalso carry the FDA's "black box" warning on their packaging to alert doctors andpatients to these potential risks. The warning advises doctors to prescribe short-term use of Elidel and Protopic only after other available eczema treatments havefailed in adults and children over the age of 2. It should not be used in kids underage 2.

How Can Eczema Flare-ups Be Prevented?

Eczema outbreaks can sometimes be avoided or the severity lessened by followingthese simple tips.

• Moisturize frequently. 
• Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity. 
• Avoid sweating or overheating. 
• Reduce stress. 
• Avoid scratchy materials, such as wool. 
• Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and solvents. 
• Be aware of any foods that may cause an outbreak and avoid those food.