Patient Education
WHAT IS ECZEMA?
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Dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema are terms that are often used
interchangeably. These conditions can be classified as acute or chronic.
Dermatitis is often acute and refers to an area of irritation usually
because of contact with some type of allergen. With Acute Dermatitis the
skin is often darker, thicker and itchier than surrounding unaffected skin.
Chronic Dermatitis is also known as Atopic Eczema. This is often
characterized by red swollen, scaly, blistering areas. This condition is
particularly prevalent in children and usually there is some type of family
history of the disease. Psychological stress can provoke or aggravate this
condition, because it interferes with suppressing normal immune responses.
Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) is related to a yeast called Pityrosporum
ovale (also known as Malassezia furfur). People with this form of
dermatitis seem to have a reduced resistance to this yeast. For some unknown
reason, people with certain neurological disorders including Parkinson's
disease and stroke are particularly prone to this form of dermatitis.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis appears at after puberty. It varies in severity and
can persist for years.
Dermatitis is not contagious.
Causes of Dermatitis
Allergic Contact Dermatitis is caused by skin contact with substances such
as latex, perfume, metals, hair dye and other chemicals. Very few people
have a reaction to these and other substances but when sensitive, they can
be very problematic.
Handling irritants such as detergents and other cleaning solvents, harsh
chemicals and friction causes other forms of Dermatitis.
Sebborrhoeic Dermatitis is caused by a reduced resistance to the yeast
known as Pityrosporum ovale. It can be aggravated by other illnesses,
stress and fatigue.
Diagnosis
Dermatologists can usually identify the type of dermatitis by sight
and
when necessary patch testing, to rule out allergic contact dermatitis, is
performed to determine the source of the allergen.
Treatment
The most important aspect of treatment is to identify and address the
source of the condition. Once the source has been identified, your physician
can help to correct and control it.
These treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Antihistamines
- Topical Steroid Cream/ointments
- Anti yeast Creams
- Medicated shampoos
- Systemic steroids
- Tar creams
Self care and long-term control
Allergens: protect the skin and avoid known skin allergens
Bathing: use lukewarm water. Showers are better. Do not use standard bar
soap. Use a mild substitute cleansing bar or liquid that your dermatologist
recommends. No scrubbing with any abrasive item.
Clothing:wear soft cotton
clothes that are comfortable and not tight.
Avoid wool if possible.
Irritants: protect the skin and avoid known irritants
Moisturizers:apply non-perfumed moisturizers liberally and as often as necessary,
particularly after bathing. Dermatologists can recommend appropriate products.