Eczema: name that itch

Whether you have a flaky scalp or blistered hands, understanding the different types of eczema can help you manage this irritating skin condition.

Eczema is a skin inflammation characterized by recurring episodes of itching along with typically dry, red skin. The condition affects approximately 10–15% of adults and up to 12–25% of children around the world. Eczema usually begins in childhood and can continue through adolescence into adulthood.

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. It can affect both children and adults, and is usually inherited. Certain genes make some people have extra-sensitive skin, and certain environmental factors – such as irritants, an allergy, or stress – can trigger an episode of eczema. Symptoms include overall itchiness and dryness of the skin, redness, and inflammation.

Eczema is not contagious, and, with proper skin care and treatment, the inflammation of eczema can be reduced. If you or your child has eczema, understanding more about it can help you manage your symptoms, or care for a child with eczema.

Types of eczema

Eczema is often referred to as atopic dermatitis. However, atopic dermatitis is only one of the many types of eczema. The following describes the different types of eczema.

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of chronic eczema. It tends to run in families who also suffer from hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and asthma.

Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation. It's a temporary reaction to an irritant or allergen (a substance that starts off an allergic reaction), as occurs in poison ivy.

Seborrhea is eczema of the scalp. In adults, mild seborrhea is known as dandruff. In babies, it tends to look more severe, and is called "cradle cap."

Nummular eczema normally affects older adults, and its cause is unknown. Round patches of scaly inflamed skin may appear anywhere on the body. Winter is the peak period for this condition, which tends to affect dry skin.

Varicose eczema (or gravitational eczema) affects the lower legs of older adults. It is basically a problem of poor blood circulation.

Lichen simplex chronicus is a chronic skin condition caused by a "scratch-itch cycle" where something irritates the skin (such as clothing), causing the person to scratch the area repeatedly. With frequent scratching, the skin area becomes thickened and leathery. It often appears in times of stress or anxiety.

Neurodermatitis is another name for lichen simplex chronicus.

Dyshidrotic eczema is an irritation characterized by clear, deep blisters that itch and burn in the region of the skin of the palms of hands and soles of feet.

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