Eczema

What is eczema or dermatitis?

The term ‘eczema’ is used interchangeably with ‘dermatitis’ and refers to in­flammation of the skin. Eczema varies from person to person and comes in many different forms. In mild cases, the skin is dry, red and itchy. In more severe cases, the skin may be weepy, scaly or bleed.

What are the types of eczema?

Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema is the most common type of eczema.

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoiec dermatitis can occur in babies and adults. It is seen on the oily areas of the body such as the scalp, face, upper chest, back and groin. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is either not itchy or just mildly itchy. When the scalp is affected, dandruff is seen.

Discoid Eczema

This presents with itchy, scaly, coin-shaped patches which tend to blister and weep. It commonly occurs on the arms and legs of young adults.

Asteatotic Eczema

Asteatotic eczema is due to dryness of the skin, especially the arms and legs of elderly people. It usually presents with an itchy, scaly, red rash on the limbs.

Stasis Eczema

Stasis eczema is commonly seen in the elderly and people with varicose veins in the legs. The legs may become swollen, especially at the end of the day or after prolonged standing. The skin is pigmented thick and feels firm to touch.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs due to contact with external agents. Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by exposure to irritants such as soaps and detergents. Allergic contact dermatitis is caused by a specific hypersensitivity to an allergen.