The term eczema and dermatitis are used interchangeably, denoting an inflammatory reaction pattern involving several layers of the skin. Acute eczema/dermatitis is characterized by pruritus (itchiness), erythema and vesiculations (blisters). Chronic eczema is characterized by pruritus, over infections and fissures.
There are many causes and different types of dermatitis:
- Contact dermatitis
- Irritant dermatitis
- Chronic dermatitis/eczema
- Atopic dermtatitis
- Lichen simple
- Dyshidrotic eczmea
- Seborrheic dermatitis
Many of the conditions have predisposing factors, such as atopy (allergies), autoimmune baselines, fair skin, low termperature, climate, mechanical irritation, occupational exposure, plant/alllergen exposure, etc.
Clinically, they can vary and have different manifestations:
- Dry patches, rash, blisters
- Itchy or painful or burning
- Scabs or scales
Treatment will depend on diagnosis but with a careful clinical history taking and visual examination/assessment, we can safely and efficiently treat all conditions.