How common is eczema?

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. It usually begins shortly before children are 6 months of age, and almost always before they are 5 years old. An estimated 20 percent of infants and young children develop atopic dermatitis, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. In early childhood, more boys develop atopic dermatitis than girls. As children get older, this reverses.

What does eczema look like?

In most cases, eczema begins as intense itching, followed by a patchy rash that is red, inflamed, dry and scaly. The rash most often appears on the face, arms and legs, and particularly affects the creases of the hands and feet. The rash often itches or burns and may ooze or become crusty when scratched.

Rashes in children under age 2 tend to begin on the cheeks, elbows and knees. In adults, rashes are more likely to begin on the inside surfaces of knees and elbows. Adults are more likely than children to have patches that appear brownish, scaly and thickened. Some people with eczema develop red or clear fluid-filled bumps that look bubbly. Painful cracking also may occur.

How is eczema treated?

Symptoms associated with these forms of eczema vary slightly, as do the treatments used to reduce the skin inflammation and itchiness. Medications such as over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics and antifungal creams are often used to treat eczema.