Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Eczema
Introduction
What is Eczema?
- Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is manifested as a skin swelling, flakiness, dryness of the skin, and itchy sensation.
- Several factors are linked with this disease such as genetic mutation, and family history.
- Eczema cannot be cured, but it is not contagious.
- This is usually associated with allergy.
What are the symptoms of Eczema?
- Eczema can present as:
- Infants and children – lesions are found on the neck, head, cheeks, scalp, front of the arms and legs.
- Adolescents and adults – lesions are distributed mainly on elbow creases, lateral portion of the neck, and back of the knees. [1]
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
- Several diseases can present similarly with eczema.
- These include some inflammatory diseases, cancer, and nutritional deficiency.
Where to find medical care for Eczema
Directions to Hospitals Treating Eczema
Prevention of Eczema
- Having a proper skin care using moisturizers most especially during cold or dry seasons.
- To avoid worsening of an ongoing eczema, avoid stress, sudden changes in temperature, wool or other synthetic fabrics.
References
- ↑ Maliyar K, Sibbald C, Pope E, Gary Sibbald R (2018). “Diagnosis and Management of Atopic Dermatitis: A Review”. Adv Skin Wound Care. 31 (12): 538–550. doi:10.1097/01.ASW.0000547414.38888.8d. PMID 30475283.
Editor-In-Chief:
Ethan Leeman, Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Edzel Lorraine Co, DMD, MD[1]
Want to know more?
A more detailed clinical article for the same condition is available from WikiDoc. It is written for medical professionals and uses technical language.