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.