Eczema
Eczema is a general term for a variety of inflamed skin conditions, one of the most common of which is atopic dermatitis.
ATOPIC DERMATITIS (ECZEMA)
- Atopic Dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that recurs, with intermittent episodes of inflamed skin.
- It is believed that Atopic Dermatitis is due to the interplay of multiple factors including environmental factors and inherited factors which combine to create an abnormal immune / inflammatory response in the skin.
- While the exact cause of eczema is unknown, various triggers have been identified including hot, humid or dry environments, foods and even certain coarse fabrics. These triggers vary from person to person.
- In general Atopic Dermatitis can be managed but it cannot be cured.
- Atopic Dermatitis is often characterised by regions of itchy, red, dry patches on the skin. Normally it occurs on the backs of the knees, front of the elbows and neck, however in more severe disease it can occur anywhere on the skin.
Since eczema is sensitive to certain triggers, part of the dermatologist’s care will be education as to how an individual can avoid them.
Eczema is a common childhood skin rash. In addition to occurring on the back of the knees, front of the elbows and neck, it can also occur on the hands, feet and the face.
ECZEMA MANAGEMENT
Identifiy the triggers and avoid these
- Improve the barrier function with moisturisers tailored to the circumstances.
- Reduce infection
- A highpercentage of people witheczema carry bacteriathatcan lead to secondary infection of eczema. This bacteriaalsomay trigger eczema. Treatment of secondary infection and measures to reducebacteria on the skin mayimproveeczema control.
- If inflammation (redness and itch) are present topical steroids are essential to treat eczema. These are very safe if used appropriately.
CLICK TO READ REVIEW ON SAFETY OF TOPICAL STEROIDS IN CHILDREN
reference
- Mooney E et al. Adverse effects of topical corticosteroids in paediatric eczema: Australasian consensus statement. Australas J Dermatol. 2015 Mar 6. doi: 10.1111/ajd.12313.
Your dermatologist will work with you to maks a plan to treat your eczema during flare ups and to maintain control. These plans are customised to suit the individual.
PHOTOTHERAPY (LIGHT THERAPY) FOR ECZEMA
- Narrow Band Ultraviolet B therapy can be used to treat eczema.
- UVB reduces inflammation in the skin
- It is often used in conjunction with other treatments to control widespread eczema.
- The treatment involves a short attendance at the clinic for treatment 2-3 times per week.
- The treatment takes as little as 30sec to a few minutes each attendance.
- A typical treatment duration is 6 -12 weeks
- UVB treatment (whole body and hand /foot) is available at our Stafford rooms and is bulk billed.
SYSTEMIC TREATMENTS FOR ECZEMA
Rarely the above measures are not enough to control severe eczema. In these situations options include :
- Other tablets eg methotrexate, azathioprine and cyclosporine.
- These require special monitoring for side effects during use.
- Your Dermatologist can advise you regarding these options.
While most skin rashes can appear to look like eczema, it is not best to assume it is and is often best to consult with your dermatologist for assessment and further management.