Eczema: Fast Facts
Reviewed By:
Mary Ellen Luchetti, M.D., AAD
- Eczema is an itchy, noncontagious inflammation of the
skin.
- In most cases, eczema begins as intense itching, followed by a
patchy rash that is red, inflamed, dry and scaly.
- The rash most often affects the face, arms and legs as well as
the creases of the hands and feet.
- Eczema appears in many different varieties, including atopic
dermatitis, contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema.
- According to the National Institute of Arthritis and
Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, more than 15 million people in
the United States have symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
- Scaly, itchy skin rashes are typical symptoms of atopic
dermatitis.
- Atopic conditions occur in people who are overly sensitive to
allergens in their environment.
- Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin's surface comes
directly into contact with an allergen or irritant.
- According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, contact dermatitis and eczema are responsible for over
7 million healthcare provider visits every year.
- Symptoms of contact dermatitis include a red, raised rash on
the skin that often itches.
- Seborrheic dermatitis is an inflammation of the upper layers of
the skin.
- Seborrheic dermatitis results from an overproduction of skin
cells and sebum, the skin's natural oil.
- When the disorder appears in infants, it is called cradle
cap.
- Seborrheic dermatitis typically causes a scaly, itchy rash that
often appears with reddened skin.
- Seborrheic dermatitis most commonly occurs on the scalp, sides
of the nose, eyebrows, eyelids, skin behind the ears and middle of
the chest.
- People with neurologic conditions often have an increased risk
of seborrheic dermatitis.
- Much of the damage associated with eczema result of scratching
brought on by intense itchiness.
- Long-term irritation and scratching can cause the skin to
thicken and take on a leathery texture.
- Medications such as over-the-counter or prescription
antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics and antifungal creams
are often used to treat eczema.
- People with eczema can reduce the risk of flare-ups by keeping
their skin from becoming too dry.
- In addition, other steps can be taken to reduce the risk of
eczema depending on the nature of the skin disorder that is
present.
- Treatment of contact dermatitis involves identifying and
avoiding allergens and irritants that trigger the condition.
- There is no cure for atopic dermatitis, but treatments can
reduce symptoms.
- The main therapy for seborrheic dermatitis is diligent and
consistent shampooing of the scalp and washing of the skin.
- Medications such as corticosteroids or antifungals are also
sometimes used to treat seborrheic dermatitis.
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