Skin Conditions and Diagnoses

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Explanation | Causes | Symptoms | Treatment

What is eczema?

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a noncontagious condition of the skin. A child that has eczema will have skin that is extremely sensitive. Because it is so sensitive, the skin has three major problems: dryness, itching and infection. Eczema often occurs in children and families where hayfever, allergies and asthma are seen.

Eczema may last many years. Sometimes it will improve as your child grows older.

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What causes eczema?

The cause of eczema is unknown. Most children with eczema are born with the tendency for their skin to break out. Many things may make your child's eczema worse. You may notice that winter weather may make your child's eczema worse.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include red, dry, crusted, weeping and cracking skin. Symptoms may begin as early as 1 to 4 months of age. The areas first affected may be the cheeks, face, trunk, elbows and knees. Other areas that may be involved are the tops of the feet, behind the knees and inside the elbows. Itching is a common symptom of the condition. Infections of the skin may occur which make the skin look worse and make the itching worse.

Treatment

At this time there is no cure for eczema. If your child is diagnosed with eczema, his/her doctor will recommend special care for your child's skin. This may include the following:

  • Your child may have a prescribed steroid ointment or cream, or an immunomodulator ointment or cream to be applied to his/her skin. He/she will also instruct you to put a moisturizer on the skin over the medicated ointment or cream.
  • If your child has any areas of infection, an antibiotic ointment may be prescribed. An antibiotic to be taken by mouth may also be prescribed if necessary.
  • An antihistamine (anti-itch medication) may be recommended to be taken by mouth to help decrease your child's itching. If your child is having trouble sleeping due to itching, this is especially helpful.
  • Since eczema can last for many years, it is important for your child to continue to see his/her doctor and to be treated regularly as instructed to keep the child as comfortable as possible.
  • Bathe your child daily in tepid water (not too hot or cold). Let him/her soak for 10-15 minutes.
  • Have all of your medicines ready to apply when your child gets out of the tub.
  • "Pat" your child dry, leaving his/her skin moist. Within 3 minutes of getting him/her out of the tub, apply the steroid, immunodilator or topical/antibiotic medication, then the moisturizer directly over the other medicines an dover other areas of the body.
  • You may be instructed to apply medications more than once a day but you do not need to bathe your child more than once a day.



Patient Education Program I 1014 12/98
Rev. 3/07