Eczema

Eczema is one of the common rashes seen in Dermatology offices. The hallmarks of eczema are itching, inflammation, and scaling of the skin. Eczema can be triggered by dry skin, stress, winter weather, irritation of the skin, and contact allergy. In most cases, gentle skin care and judicious use of a prescription-strength topical steroid can clear the skin. Most patients experience recurrent attacks of eczema that readily clear up with topical treatment. However, if the eczema is refractory to treatment, allergy patch testing may need to be done to help exclude sources of contact allergy in the environment. Some individuals with eczema may also have systemic allergies, asthma, or other family members with these problems. In this instance, the eczema is often referred to as “atopic dermatitis.”