Medical: Atpoic Eczema

This article provides information on different types of eczema. Atopic eczema

mostly affects children, but it can continue through adult life. It's usually determined by

genetics. After three months symptoms start to appear. A patient who excessively

rubs or scratches the skin, most commonly below the elbow, is said to have lichen simplex

chronicus. Some of the most common everyday allergens are metal, rubber, perfumes,

nail varnish, some plants, and cosmetics. The most common eczema for the elderly is

asteatotic. The skin becomes dry, red, scaly and superficially fissured. If the skin has

suffered sun damage, it is more likely to occur. They recommend to avoid using soap and

restrict bathing. In gravitational eczema the leg is initially swollen, and itchy eczematous

patches may develop, mostly on the lower legs. Continuous scratching can lead to a

secondary infection. They suggest that the patient shouldn't stand for long periods of time,

and also to elevate their feet when lying down. A condition where small blisters develop

that can itch and burn is called pompholyx eczema. The blisters can start to crack or peel.

This condition usually affects the hands but can also affect the feet. They think that the cause

is associated with sweating, but it is really unknown. Stress also appears to be a factor.

Some new terms that I learned from the article are: erythema, tacrolimus,

lichenification, and discoid. Erythema is a redness of the skin resulting from inflammation, for

example, as caused by sunburn. Tarcolimus is a drug that suppresses the immune system

and is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Lichenfication is the thickening of the

skin with hyperkeratosis caused by chronic inflammation resulting from prolonged scratching

or irritation. Discoid means shaped like or resembling a disc.

The article was interesting to me because it provided information and treatment

procedures on the different types of eczema. This would be a good article to read for

someone that is looking for factual information and tips on how to treat the diagnosis.

References

Watkins, Jean. (September 9, 2005). Clinical: Different types of eczema.

Retrieved September 24, 2005, from Ebsco Host research database.

Definitions from: http://www.ask.com