[49] Eczema Flashcards
What is eczema also known as?
Dermatitis
What is eczema?
A disease that causes inflammation of the skin
What are the characteristics of eczema?
Itchy, red skin and rash
What factors are thought to play a role in the development of eczema?
- Genetic susceptibility
- Impaired epidermal barrier function
- Immune dysregulation
What can act as triggers for flare ups of eczema?
- Dry skin
- Irritants
- Infection
- Sweating/heat
- Emotional stress
- Allergies
What are the risk factors for eczema?
- Unusually clean environment
- Coeliac disease
- Family history
What is the main symptom of eczema?
Pruritis
What is the effect of the pruritis in eczema?
Causes scratching and exacerbation of the rash
What can happen to the excoriated areas in eczema?
They can become erythematous, weepy and crusted
Where does eczema commonly affect in infants?
- Cheeks
- Elbows
- Knees
Where does eczema commonly affect in children?
- Flexural areas
- Wrists
- Ankles
Where does eczema commonly affect in adolescents?
- Flexures
- Head and neck
- Nipples
- Palms
- Soles
Does eczema require investigation?
No
What are the differentials for eczema?
- Scabies
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis herpetiformis
What are the conservative management measures?
- Soap avoidance
- Limiting baths and showers to 5-10 minutes
- Moisturise after washing
- Avoid over-heating
- Keep finger nails short
