Atopic eczema - Atopic dermatitis

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Common-

This is an inflammatory, chronic, recurring skin condition. It usually develops in babies or young children and can last into adulthood.

The exact cause is unknown, but it has a hereditary component.

The main symptom is a skin rash, usually accompanied by severe itching and blisters that develop and fester, leaving yellow scabs.

Diagnosis is based on a detailed history and physical examination.

Treatment is based on the administration of corticosteroid creams, oral antihistamines and moisturising the skin; in severe cases, oral steroids are administered.

Bibliographic references
  1. William L Weston, William Howe. Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of atopic dermatitis (eczema). UpToDate. Jun 21, 2016.
  2. William L Weston, William Howe. Treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). UpToDate. Sep 13, 2016.
  3. Eichenfield LF, Tom WL, Chamlin SL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: section 1. Diagnosis and assessment of atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2014; 70:338.
  4. Vinding GR, Zarchi K, Ibler KS, et al. Is adult atopic eczema more common than we think? - A population-based study in Danish adults. Acta Derm Venereol 2014; 94:480.
  5. Leslie P. Lawley, Calvin O. McCall y Thomas J. Lawley. Eccema, psoriasis, infecciones cutáneas, acné y otros trastornos cutáneos frecuentes. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición. 344:345
  6. T. Gallart. Enfermedades alérgicas mediadas por anticuerpos IgE (hipersensibilidad inmediata o alerga atópica). Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición. 2709:2710.
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Symptoms

    Skin injuries due to scratching


    Reddened area of skin with vesicles, blisters and/or small red spots


    Scratches with thickened skin and pronounced wrinkles


    Skin irritation with flaking patches


    Skin blisters that produce yellow-crusted scabs

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)
Symptom persistence during the first month of treatment.
Reddened and painful ulcer in the affected area
Reddish sores that are itchy, break open, and ooze clear fluid or pus

Self-care

Antihistamines in syrup or tablet form for itching.
Apply cream or an ointment with corticosteroids.
Apply cold compresses 3 times a day for 20 minutes to reduce the symptoms.
Avoid using tight clothing, soaps with fragrance or that can irritate the area.