Eczema
Eczema is used as a general term for many types of skin inflammation (dermatitis) and allergic-type skin rashes. Types of eczema include: allergic, contact, irritant, and nummular eczema, plus several other forms with similar symptoms.
Atopic dermatitis is a common, often chronic skin disease that starts in childhoood. It often occurs in individuals also affected with asthma and hay fever. Atopic dermatitis causes redness, itching, swelling, scaling and even cracking and weeping on affected areas. Dry skin is often present and can actually cause flare-up symptoms. Atopic dermatitis can be hereditary. (Note: The word "atopic" refers to diseases that are hereditary. Dermatitis means "inflammation of the skin.").
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| Eczema, a severe form of atopic dermatitis takes on many forms and appearances, and can even affect the eyelids. Photo courtesy of: DR P. MARAZZI / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY |
The condition can occur at any age, but usually affects young children and often goes into permanent remission as they get older. Patients with atopic dermatitis usually experience periods of flare-ups followed by periods of improvement. The skin may even clear entirely for a time.
Triggers include allergies, dry skin and cold temperatures. But even household items like harsh soaps, detergent and skin products can aggravate the condition.
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| Harsh soaps, detergent, and skin products can aggravate an eczema condition. Photo courtesy of: SHEILA TERRY / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY |
MMS dermatologists focus on healing the skin, preventing flare-ups and treating/relieving symptoms with a variety of customized care protocols. Eczema can be treated in many different ways including the new XTRAC laser at our north oak office.
