Eczema, excema and dermatitis

Medical terms

Eczema, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant con

Common terms

Eczema, excema, dermatitis, dry skin, cradle cap

Overview

There are a number of types of eczema.  Atopic dermatitis is most common in children but can affect adults of all ages.  Whilst many children grow out of eczema they may have a tendency to dry, sensitive skin in adulthood.  Other types of eczema include seborrhoeic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis.

Symptoms and signs

Itching and dryness, crusting, flaking, blistering, cracking, oozing, or bleeding. Areas of temporary skin discoloration may appear due to healed lesions, although scarring is rare.

Treatment

Recognizing the correct type of eczema is crucial to an effective treatment plan. Treatment of eczema can be complex and comprises a maintenance skin care programme to reduce the incidence of flares as well as treatment for the acute episodes.  Topical steroids have been the mainstay of treatment for eczema.  These preparations have been in existence for over 40 years and so the safety profile and side effects are well known.  Our Dermatologist is able to discuss with you how to use topical steroid treatment as well as discuss the steroid alternative treatments.