Eczema, medically referred to as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that presents with symptoms such as dryness, itching, redness, and scaly patches on the skin. While eczema can manifest in individuals of all age groups, it usually originates during infancy or childhood.

• Intensely pruritic rash with erythematous papules and excoriations
• Thickening of the skin and lichenification due to scratching or rubbing
• In infants, eczema often presents as dry, scaly, and red patches distributed across the body, accompanied by small scratches.
• School-aged children and adults commonly experience eczema on flexural surfaces like the inner elbows and behind the knees.
• Dennie-Morgan lines, which are lines or folds on the face, can be a characteristic feature of eczema.
• Hypopigmented patches or fine-scaling plaques are commonly seen on the face.

Genetics

• Eczema has a hereditary aspect. One gene in particular, Filaggrin, is crucial for skin cell maturity and has a common mutation that has been observed in patients with eczema.
• Filaggrin is responsible for producing the strong, flat corneocytes that make up the outermost layer of skin.
• In a patient with normal skin, the corneocytes are organized and tightly packed.

Environmental factors

• Substances or materials that can cause irritation or inflammation on the skin
• Fabrics made of wool or synthetic materials
• Detergents can be common triggers or aggravators of eczema

Individuals with eczema have a higher risk of bacterial and viral infections due to a compromised skin barrier.

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Herpes simplex virus
• Warts

• Moisturize the skin daily
• Avoid moisturizers containing chemicals that may cause eczema
• Stay away from triggers
• Avoid using soap or bubble baths that may dry or damage the skin
• Ensure baths and showers are not too hot
• Rinse off chlorine immediately after swimming
• Avoid overheating