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Eczema, also known as
Atopic
Dermatitis, is an inflammatory
skin disease that is often
associated with environmental
allergies and sensitivities.
Most patients, some two-thirds of
all sufferers with Eczema,
also have a positive family history
of Eczema. Those with this condition
are also at an increased
risk of developing other conditions,
such as hay fever and asthma. [1] T here
also seem to be abnormalities in the
mast cells of persons with atopic dermatitis, which
causes specific cells to release high
amounts of histamine and other
mediators of allergic reaction. [2] Other
aggravating factors that can trigger
exacerbations of eczema include;
changes in humidity, temperature, and
varying emotional stress factors. |
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Atopic Dermatitis can manifest
differently, and is dependant on the age of
the patient. In infants; red,
weeping, and crusty spots, located on the
face, scalp, diaper area, arms
and legs, are a common finding. It is
common for these rashes to improve by age
3-4, but flare-ups later in life are
common.
In older
children and adults, the rash tends
to be more localized in
stereotypical areas, like the crooks
of elbows and backs of knees (flexural
folds). Rashes may also appear
on the eyelids, neck, and wrists
and/or hands. These areas
appear to be red and scratched.
Persons may also have thickened
skin, resulting from possible
concomitant bacterial infections. [3] It
is also possible for atopic
dermatitis to become
generalized. As mentioned, it
is common for those with atopic
dermatitis to also exhibit
symptoms of hay fever and asthma.
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