Eczema Flashcards
What are two types of eczema?
1) atopic eczema
2) nummular eczema
What types of lesions are present in atopic eczema?
- itchy, inflamed skin
- poorly defined erythema with edema
- vesicles and weeping if acute
- skin thickening (lichenification) if chronic
What causes atopic eczema?
may be from type 1 hypersensitivity (allergy) - not necessarily through contact (ex. can be from ingesting)
Does atopic eczema predispose patients to other disease?
predisposes them to allergies
Atopic eczema can present differently in different populations, ages. How does it present for kids under 5? For adults?
kids under 5 (70%):
- begins on cheeks
adults:
- affects elbows and knees
How is atopic eczema treated?
- avoid temperature changes, stress, irritants
- wash in warm water to decrease bacteria
- hydrate, may use emollients
- topical corticosteroids for acute flare ups
- immunomodulatory drugs (tacromilus) but may have cancer risk
- wet wrap therapy
- antibiotics for secondary infections
- antihistamines (have sedative effect though - good if acute)
- phototherapy
- probiotics?
What types of lesions occur in nummular eczema? Is there anything unique about them?
- coin-shaped, papulovesicular lesions, mainly on arms and legs
- initial lesions may seem to heal then mirror image lesions appear on other side of body
Is nummular eczema mainly acute or chronic?
- mostly chronic (can have weeks or years between exacerbations)
What can aggravate nummular eczema?
- cold weather
- ingestion of iodides and bromides
What causes nummular eczema?
unknown - many people have history of allergy-related disorders
How is nummular eczema treated?
like atopic eczema:
- avoid frequent bathing (periodic with warm water to remove bacteria)
- avoid stress, triggers
- topical emollients, corticosteroids
- light therapy
