Skin/Autoimmune

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, dry, and cracked. It is common in children but can occur at any age. Eczema tends to flare periodically, often in association with environmental triggers. It is frequently found alongside other allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

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Symptoms

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Causes

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Treatments

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Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis). This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Dry skin
  • Itching (pruritus), especially at night
  • Red to brownish-gray patches
  • Small, raised bumps that may weep fluid when scratched
  • Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin
  • Raw, swollen skin from scratching

Causes

  • Skin barrier dysfunction
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Genetic factors (filaggrin gene mutations)
  • Environmental triggers: soaps, detergents, dust, animal dander, certain foods, stress, sweat

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • Patch testing to identify allergens
  • Allergy skin test or blood test

Treatment

  • Moisturizers (emollients)
  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Topical calcineurin inhibitors
  • Topical PDE4 inhibitors (crisaborole)
  • JAK inhibitors (topical and oral)
  • Biologic agents (dupilumab, tralokinumab)
  • Phototherapy

Risk Factors

  • Family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever
  • Urban living
  • Higher income countries
  • Young age

Prevention

  • Regular moisturizing
  • Avoiding known triggers
  • Gentle skincare routine

Prevalence

Affects about 31.6 million Americans (10.1%); up to 20% of children worldwide.