Eczema Atopic Dermatitis

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition in children. It affects 10 to 20 percent of children. In adult incidence is less, 1 to 3 percent.

Cause of Eczema/Atopic dermatitis

Disruption of the skin barrier leads to dry skin, irritation and inflammation
Food sensitization
Faulty gene in their skin called filaggrin.

Most common symptoms of eczema

Dry Skin
Skin redness
Irritated and itchy skin
Scaly and thick skin
Fissured and oozing skin

Itching in atopic dermatitis can be very severe and extremely irritating.

There may be associated skin infection. It is seen that several patients with eczema also suffer from asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies.

Location of rash in infant and children

Scalp
Knees
Elbows
Cheeks

Location of rash in Adult

Wrists
Elbows
Ankles
Knees
Face
Neck

There may be personal or family history of any form of allergic disorder.

Diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis

Consultation with an allergist is necessary.

Symptoms and signs

Skin test

Allergen specific IgE

Eczema treatment & management strategy

The major goals of treatment are

Improve quality of life.
Ability to maintain normal daily activity.
Feel healthy and satisfied with skin appearance.
Minimal side effects from medication.
No sleep disturbances.

Avoidance of Possible Triggers

Irritants: like chemicals, detergents, soaps, fragrances, and smoke.

Steps to perform to reduce irritant exposures:
Wear suitable and comfortable clothing.
Wash garments prior to wearing.
Cut fingernails short and smooth

Use broad-spectrum UV protective sunscreen lotion (SPF of 15 or higher).
Bathe immediately after swimming

Inhaled Allergens:

House dust mites are most important. Follow HDM preventive measures.

Foods:

Certain food can aggravate eczema symptoms. Consult with allergist. Do allergy testing. Then elimination of certain food can be done as per your doctor’s advice.

Stress:

Stress, including anger and frustration, can aggravate itching. So be stress free.

Treatments

Topical Moisturizers

Moisturizing your skin is an important eczema management
Apply moisturizer on the slightly wet skin after bathe.

Topical Steroids

Are anti-inflammatory medications
Apply on the red and inflamed areas of the skin
Mild topical steroids are usually safe

Avoid application of potent steroid in areas, such as the underarms, groin area, and face.

Wet-Wrap Therapy

Wet wrap therapy is usually used for people with severe and difficult to manage eczema

Antihistamines Drugs

itching of eczema is not caused by histamine. Therefore, anti-histamines will not control the symptoms.

Sedative antihistamines are sometimes used.

Treatment of Associated Infections

Give antibiotics if associated skin infection present.

Stress-Relieving Therapies

Vitamins

Vitamin D supplements

Biologic Medicines

Consult with allergist

Probiotics

Not for routine use. May be helpful in some cases.

Immunotherapy

Allergy shots are currently approved for the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis. It is also helpful in some cases of eczema.

In conclusion, eczema is usually treatable condition. Consultation with an allergist is important. Proper management strategy enable someone to lead normal life style.

CFAA