Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

There are different forms of eczema:

  • Atopic Dermatitis - the most common form of eczema and is characterized by dry itchy skin. It usually begins with an itch or a rash. The more you itch and scratch the worse the rash becomes.
  • Nummular eczema - can be triggered by a reaction to an insect bite or an allergic reaction to chemicals or metals. It causes round coin shaped spots to form on the skin.
  • Contact Dermatitis - can be caused by an irritant to the skin such as latex, jewelry, soaps, perfumes, etc. 
  • Dyshidrotic eczema - is a form of eczema that appears as small clear fluid filled vesicles on the palms, fingers, toes, and soles of feet. They itch and can sometimes be painful.
  • Stasis Dermatitis - usually occurs when fluid starts to leak out of weakened vessel walls and into the surrounding tissue causing swelling, pain, and itching on the lower legs.
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis - is a form of dermatitis that can occur around areas where there is a lot of oil producing glands such as the nose, scalp, forehead, eyebrows, eyelids, and ears. Can cause redness with dry flaky skin. Often times called “cradle cap” in infants.

Eczema is treated mainly by topical treatments, however, can also be treated by systemic medications depending on the severity and type of dermatitis.