Atopic eczema is the most common form of eczema, and it is a condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red and cracked. Some people may suffer with small patches of dry skin whilst other may have widespread red, inflamed skin all over the body.
It is usually a long term condition, however it can improve or even completely clear in time. It is commonly found to affect the hands, elbows, back of the knees and the face and scalp in children.
The patients GP will usually diagnose them with eczema, but the patient may not be given a formal diagnosis until 12 months after the first instance.
Eczema's exact cause is unknown but it often occurs when people have allergies. It can run in families and can develop with other conditions such as asthma and hay fever. Some people may have certain triggers for eczema.
For further details on Eczema, you can complete the Counter Excellence module on Managing Dry Skin and Eczema.