Eczema (also referred to as dermatitis) is the name for the group of conditions that cause skin to become dry and irritated. 

• Affects all ages but primarily seen in children.
• Prevalance in UK is 1 in 5 children/1 in 12 adults¹.
• Mild cases: skin is dry/scaly/red and itchy.
• More severe cases: weeping/crusting /bleeding.
• Scratching may cause the skin to split increasing the risk of infection.

Cause

The specific cause of eczema is unknown, but is thought to develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Common types of Eczema

• Atopic: An inherited tendency to develop eczema.
• Contact: The most common work related skin conditions.
• Discoid: Distinct round discs of eczema.
• Varicose: Affects the lower legs, common in people varicose veins.
• Seborrhoeic eczema:
  –Infantile: Common in infants under 1 year tend's to affect the scalp as cradle cap.
  –Adults: Tends to affect scalp, flexures, torso and face.

Treatment

Emollient – To keep moisturised.

Topical Steroids - To manage inflammation and flare ups.

^{1 National Eczema Society}