by Mohtasham Qadri

Created on: April 14, 2010

Eczema is an inflammatory condition with the severity variable for all individuals. It is a disorder of the skin also known as dermatitis in medical terminology. In cases where eczema is mild, the skin becomes dry, hot, and itches. On the other hand, the severe cases are characterized by skin getting raw and broken, as well as bleeds. In infants, eczema is seen more commonly on the forehead, cheeks, scalp, neck, forearm, and legs. In children and adults, it occurs on the face, neck, knees, elbows, and ankles.

Types of eczema:

Eczema is of two types, known as Atopic eczema and Contact dermatitis. Atopic eczema is a hereditary condition in which individuals are sensitive to allergens present in their surrounding, and otherwise harmless to others. This type of eczema is the result of increased reaction by the individual’s immune system. Furthermore, Atopic eczema tends to worsen after eating some foods or after getting exposure to allergens, such as dust or pollen. Atopic eczema is a long-term condition which can occur throughout life. On the other hand, Contact dermatitis is the common type of eczema which results from an allergic reaction after touching certain object. Some commonly observed irritants include feathers, metal, certain plants, animal hair, wool, soaps, cosmetics, dyes, and many more. It is important to remember that this type eczema can be caused by a variety of different objects.

Causes of eczema:

The exact cause of eczema is not fully understood. However many researches demonstrate its strong association with genetics. Genetics, together with external environmental factors, are thought to play a major role in the development of eczema.

According to numerous studies, there is a genetic defect in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. Hence irritants, all types of irritants, bacteria, and allergens are able to penetrate the skin causing allergic reactions. The skin barrier is lost resulting in increased loss of water from the skin. As a consequence, there is dryness, itching and an inflammatory reaction.

Prevalence of eczema:

The most common type of eczema, the Atopic eczema affects approximately 10 to 20 percent of school going children, as well as approximately 3 to 5 percent adults.

Treatments for eczema:

The treatment of eczema is aimed to prevent itching, inflammation, and prevents it from getting worse. The treatment options involve the use of both lifestyle modifications as well as medications. The most important thing is to keep the skin well-hydrated through frequent use of ointments, creams, or oils. Also important is to avoid long baths to prevent excess loss of water.  

Corticosteroid creams are also prescribed to decrease the inflammation. In some cases, anti-histamines are also given.

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