Signs and
Symptoms of eczema may include:
- Itching (most common symptom)
- Dry skin
- Rash, usually consisting of red or scaly areas of skin
-
Areas commonly affected by eczema are:
- Infants: face, neck, extensor surfaces, trunk, groin
- Children: front of elbows, behind knees
- Adults: front of elbows, behind knees, face, neck, upper chest
- Rash may develop oozing or crusting
- Thickening and leathery quality of skin with chronic eczema (known as lichen simplex chronicus)
- Paleness around the mouth
- Extra fold of skin beneath lower eyelid (Dennie’s or Morgan’s line)
- Increased number of skin creases on the palms
Signs of possible skin infection that may require prompt medical attention include:
- Redness and swelling
- Yellowish crusting
- Drainage
of pus
The severity of eczema and the frequency and duration of outbreaks will vary among people. In severe cases, quality of life may be compromised. In addition to physical discomfort, people with eczema may develop emotional problems, such as
depression
or anxiety, and may experience social difficulties due to visible skin rashes. Eczema and its treatment may be particularly difficult for children, especially when skin involvement is quite severe.
The American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at:
http://www.aad.org
.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/
.