Atopic Eczema Flashcards
What age group is it most common in
Children
Causes
Genetic and environmental
Immunological response
Impairment of skin barrier function
Mutations in filaggrin gene
The defective skin barrier allows access to allergens and promotes colonisation by micro- organisms
What’s another word for eczema
Dermatitis
Main symptoms
ITCH !!!!!!!!!
What does a biopsy of eczema
Spongiosis : oedema between keratinocytes
Inflammatory cell infiltrate : acute or chronic lymphocytes and / or neutrophils
Cause
Skin barrier function
Environmental factors
Immunology
What’s the most important gene in eczema
Filaggrin
Acute features of eczema
Papulovescular Erythematous Oedema Ooze Scaling Crusting
Chronic features of eczema
Thickening ( lichenification)
Elevated plaques
Increased scaling
Main distribution of eczema
Symmetrical, poorly defined, flexor
What are the different types
Contact allergic Contact irritant Atopic Drug - related Photo inducted or photosensitive
What is contact dermatitis
Touching hands
Response to chemicals, topical, therapies, nickel
Ix for contact allergy
Patch test
What is Irritant ( contact) dermatitis
Non - specific physical irritation rather than a specific allergic reaction
E.g. soap, water , oil, nappy rash, lip licking
** may overlap with atopic dermatitis
