Dermatitis, commonly called eczema, is an
inflammation of the skin.
Features of
dermatitis include:
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Red, hot skin |
| • |
Swelling |
| • |
Crusting and scaling |
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Itchiness |
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Weeping and oozing of fluid. |
There are different types of dermatitis, including:
This is due to an allergic reaction that occurs when
the skin comes in contact with a particular irritant, e.g. nickel
allergy (nickel is commonly found in jewellery) or certain chemicals.
It commonly affects the hands. Household cleaners and hairdressing
sprays can also be irritants. Abrasive clothing may worsen dry skin.
This is due to excess production of sebum from the
oil glands, and presents as redness and scaling of the skin. It can
start as cradle cap or as a rash around the nappy area in infants.
This is also called infantile/childhood eczema.
There is an inherited tendency towards this type of eczema and as
such there may be a family history of eczema. It presents as a red,
dry, scaly, itchy area on the creases of the elbows, ankles, neck,
knees, wrist and scalp.
Children with atopic ezcema tend to be oversensitive
to substances such as house dust-mite droppings, pet hairs, or
pollen (these are known as allergens). Occasionally, they may have
allergies to nuts, eggs and cow's milk.
There may also be a predisposition to hay fever. Atopic eczema
generally starts before the age of six months and the child usually
grows out of it as they get older.
However, it can sometimes persist into adulthood and indeed can
recur in adulthood even after years without symptoms. Atopic eczema
may become infected, in which case the skin may weep and exude green/yellow
material.
