Eczema Flashcards
What is eczema also known as?
Atopic dermatitis
What areas does it commonly affect?
Flexural areas
What is the definition of atopic eczema?
Itchy skin condition in the last 12 months plus 3 of the following
Onset before age 2
History of flexural involvement
History of generally dry skin
History of other atopic disease
What is spongiosis?
Intercellular oedema within the skin
What is acanthosis?
Thickening of the epidermis
What gene is associated with atopic eczema?
Filaggrin gene
What is the pathogenesis of eczema?
Genetics
Environmental factors
Epidermal barrier dysfunction
What are the clinical features of eczema?
Itch
Distribution in flexures, face, hands and feet
What are the acute changes of eczema?
Pruritis Eyrthema Scale Papules Vesicles Exudate, crusting
What are the chronic changes of eczema?
Lichenification
Plaques
Fissuring
What are some of the external causes of eczema?
Contact dermatitis
Lichen simplex
Photoallergic or photo aggravated eczema
What are some of the internal types of eczema?
Atopic Discoid Venous Seborrhagic dermatitis Pompholyx
What type of reaction is allergic contact dermatitis?
Type 4 hypersensitivity
What can cause irritant contact dermatitis?
Friction
Cold
Over exposure to water
Chemicals (acids, detergents, solvents)
Who are commonly affected by irritant contact dermatitis?
Hairdressers
NHS staff
Cleaners
Nappy rash
What test is used to test for type 4 hypersensitivity?
Patch testing
What is a common name for seborrhagic dermatitis in children?
Cradle cap
What is the cause of seborrhagic dermatitis?
Overproduction of malassezia yeast
What are the signs of seborrhagic dermatitis?
Red, sharply marginated lesions covered with greasy looking scales
What is the treatment for seborrhagic dermatitis?
Topical anti-yeast (ketoconazole)
What is the appearance of discoid eczema?
Circular plaques of eczema
What are the signs of pompholyx/vesiular eczema?
Intensely itchy
Common on palms and soles
What is the appearance of asteatotic eczema?
Cracked and scaly
Very dry skin
What is the treatment for asteatotic eczema?
Emollients