-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cutaneous system
eczema
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
Eczema is a generic term for inflammatory conditions of the skin. Conditions may present as erythematous, edematous, papular, vesicular, or crusting. The conditions may progress to lichenification, and scaling. They may be categorized according to endogenous and exogenous causes with the latter further divided into light reactive and non-light reactive.

atopic dermatitis is a chronic, itching, superficial inflammation of the skin, which often occurs in people who have a history of allergic conditions like asthma or hay fever

etiology:
varied; stress, fatigue, and nutrient deficiency all play a role in allowing endogenous or exogenous irritants to cause uncomfortable skin conditions; herpes simplex or vaccination sequelae may lead to grave complications; when acute, the patient should not be vaccinated or exposed to people who have active herpes or have recently been vaccinated

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
• itching
• redness
• papules or pustules
• dry, cracked skin
• patches of dry or desquamated skin
• high serum levels of IgE antibodies
• eosinophilia
• lesions typically affect flexor surfaces, neck, face and hands

course and prognosis

variable according to etiology; episodes are usually stronger and longer-lasting in the first 5 years of life; later episodes may occur throughout life; medications used in attempt to find relief often cause allergic dermatitis; scratching may lead to infection; scratching may cause wheal which exacerbates pruritus; clinical observation suggests that extended use of suppressive anti-inflammatory medications may result in development of asthma

differential diagnosis

• etiologic variants
• psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis etc.
• local infections, especially candida
• parasitic exposure
• emotionally initiated skin changes


footnotes