Eczema: Atopic dermatitis Flashcards
Dermatology
Define eczema?
Chronic condition that causes skin itchiness, inflammation, irritation
Why is eczema used interchangeably with the term dermatitis?
Eczema is a form of chronic dermatitis
Dermatitis: Conditions that cause skin inflammation
What are the 9 main types of eczema?
Pompholyx
Contact dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis
Venous eczema
Lichen simplex
Gravitational eczema
Irritant dermatitis
Discoid eczema
Seborrheic dermatitis
What is pompholyx?
Eczema that affects hands and feet
What is allergic contact dermatitis?
Eczema caused by contact with allergen
What is irritant contact dermatitis?
Eczema caused by non-specific response contact with physical or chemical irritant
What is the most common form of eczema?
Atopic dermatitis
What is the typical onset age of atopic dermatitis?
Childhood (before 5 yrs old) but can occur at any age
What kind of conditions are usually associated with atopic dermatitis?
Other atopic conditions eg. asthma, hay fever
What kind of history does a patient with atopic dermatitis usually present with?
Family history of atopy
How does presentation of atopic dermatitis typically change with age?
Affects more flexural surfaces, less extensor surfaces
As age increases
What 3 types of skin abnormalities does atopic dermatitis commonly present as?
Plaques
Patches
Papules
Describe how plaques, patches or papules caused by atopic dermatitis typically present?
Pruritic (incessant and causes poor sleep)
Erythematous
Flaky, crusty, dry (xerosis)
What is the typical distribution of atopic dermatitis in infants?
Face, scalp, neck, trunk and extensor surfaces
What is the typical distribution of atopic dermatitis in children?
Flexor surfaces with residue on face, neck
What is the typical distribution of atopic dermatitis in adults?
Flexor surfaces
How is the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis confirmed?
Clinical diagnosis confirmed by patient history (particularly family history)
What FBC finding can indicate atopic dermatitis?
Elevated eosinophil count