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 Eczmea
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Facts about Eczema
What is Eczema?
Eczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is a group of
skin conditions which can affect all age groups. Eczema is one
of the most common skin disorders. Studies by general
practitioners suggest that around 30 per cent of all people with
skin problems have eczema. Of those referred to hospital with
skin problems, about 20 per cent have eczema in some form.
Atopic eczema is the most common form, particularly in children,
affecting 10–20 per cent to some extent.
The severity of the disease can vary. In mild forms the skin is
dry, hot and itchy, whilst in more severe forms the skin can
become broken, raw and bleeding. Although it can sometimes look
unpleasant, eczema is not contagious. With treatment the
inflammation of eczema can be reduced, though the skin will
always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care.
What Causes Eczema?
The causes of eczema are many and varied, and depend on the
particular type of eczema that a person has. Atopic eczema is
thought to be a hereditary condition, being genetically linked.
It is proposed that people with atopic eczema are sensitive to
allergens in the environment which are harmless to others. In
atopy there is an excessive reaction by the immune system
producing inflamed, irritated and sore skin. Associated atopic
conditions include asthma and hay fever. Other types of eczema
are caused by irritants such as chemicals and detergents,
allergens such as nickel, and yeast growths. In later years
eczema can be caused by a blood circulatory problems in the
legs. The causes of certain types of eczema remain to be
explained, though links with environmental factors and stress
are being explored.
The process of inflammation in eczema is complex and can be
triggered by a range of factors but an important additional one
to take into account when eczema flares up is the presence of
bacterial infection.
When bacterial infection gets into the deeper layers of the skin
there is usually a marked increase in redness and heat from the
tissues. Recognizing that this may be due to infection is
important in bringing the eczema under control.
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Types of Eczema
There are several different types of eczema, many of which look
similar but have very different causes and treatments. The first
step in effective treatment of eczema is a correct diagnosis. It
is very important to see a general practitioner in the first
instance, who may make a referral to a specialist dermatologist
for further diagnosis and treatment.
Atopic eczema: Atopic eczema is the commonest form of
eczema and is closely linked with asthma and hayfever. It can
affect both children and adults, usually running in families.
One of the most common symptoms of atopic eczema is its
itchiness (or pruritis), which can be almost unbearable. Other
symptoms include overall dryness of the skin, redness and
inflammation. Constant scratching can also cause the skin to
split, leaving it prone to infection. In infected eczema the
skin may crack and weep (‘wet’ eczema). Treatments include
emollients to maintain skin hydration and steroids to reduce
inflammation.
Allergic contact dermatitis: Develops when the body’s
immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the
skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time
through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an
allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in
earrings, belt buckles and jeans buttons. Reactions can also
occur after contact with other substances such as perfumes and
rubber. In order to prevent repeated reactions it is best to
prevent contact with anything that you know causes a rash.
Irritant contact dermatitis: This is a type of eczema
caused by frequent contact with everyday substances, such as
detergents and chemicals, which are irritating to the skin. It
most commonly occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented
by avoiding the irritants and keeping the skin moisturized.
Infantile seborrhoeic eczema: A common condition
affecting babies under one year old, the exact cause of which is
unknown. Also referred to as cradle cap, it usually starts on
the scalp or the nappy area and quickly spreads. Although this
type of eczema looks unpleasant, it is not sore or itchy and
does not cause the baby to feel uncomfortable or unwell.
Normally this type of eczema will clear in just a few months,
though the use of moisturizing creams and bath oils can help to
speed this along.
Adult seborrhoeic eczema: Characteristically affects
adults between the ages of 20 and 40. It is usually seen on the
scalp as mild dandruff, but can spread to the face, ears and
chest. The skin becomes red, inflamed and starts to flake. The
condition is believed to be caused by a yeast
growth. If the condition becomes infected, treatment with an
anti-fungal cream may be necessary.
Varicose eczema: Varicose eczema affects the lower legs
of those in their middle to late years, being caused by poor
circulation. Commonly the skin around the ankles is affected,
becoming speckled, itchy and inflamed. Treatment is with
emollients and steroid creams. If left untreated, the skin can
break down, resulting in an ulcer.
Discoid eczema: Is usually found in adults and appears
suddenly as a few coin shaped areas of red skin, normally on the
trunk or lower legs. They become itchy and can weep fluid.
Usually discoid eczema is treated with emollients (and steroid
creams if necessary).
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Links to Information on
Eczema:
Organizations
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