Eczema

Question 1

What type of hypersensitivity is associated with eczema?

Answer 1

Type I (immediate)

Eczema can occur as part of atopy, which includes conditions like asthma and hay fever.

Question 2

What are the seasonal associations with eczema in atopy?

Answer 2

Asthma in winter, hay fever/rhinoconjunctivitis in spring, eczema in summer

These associations highlight the seasonal variability of atopic conditions.

Question 3

What percentage of asthma patients experience cough-variant asthma?

Answer 3

1/3

Cough-variant asthma is characterized by a dry cough, often worse in winter or with exercise.

Question 4

What is the primary treatment for eczema?

Answer 4

Oil-based emollient and topical corticosteroids

These treatments help manage symptoms and hydrate the skin.

Question 5

What can occur if topical corticosteroids are used for more than 5-7 days continuously?

Answer 5

Thinning of the dermis

Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to skin atrophy.

Question 6

What is eczema herpeticum?

Answer 6

HSV1/2 infection superimposed on eczema.

Question 7

How is eczema herpeticum often self-inoculated?

Answer 7

By touching a cold sore then cracked skin of eczema.

Question 8

What are common symptoms of herpes infection in eczema herpeticum?

Answer 8

Fever, lymphadenopathy, tingling, burning, and painful rash (herpetic neuralgia).

Question 9

What is the treatment for eczema herpeticum?

Answer 9

Acyclovir.