eczema

eczema , acute or chronic skin disease characterized by redness, itching, serum-filled blisters, crusting, and scaling. Predisposing factors are familial history of allergic disorders (hay fever, asthma, or eczema) and sensitivity to contact allergens or certain foods. The condition is often irritated by excessive sweating, exposure to extreme heat or cold, and abnormal dryness or oiliness of the skin. Eczema may occur at any age and in both sexes. It is frequently chronic and difficult to treat, and it tends to disappear and recur. Itching can be extreme and severe, and it can often lead to an emotional disturbance. Treatment usually necessitates the avoidance of all unnecessary skin irritation; creams or lotions containing topical immunomodulators, such as tacrolimus (ProTopic and Eladil), or corticosteroids are sometimes helpful. Care should be taken to avoid secondary infections.

eczema XVIII. — modL. — Gr. ékzema, f. ekzein boil over, (of disease) break out, f. ek out, EX-2 + zein boil.

eczema Inflammatory condition of the skin, a form of dermatitis characterized by dryness, itching, rashes and blister formation. It can be caused by contact with a substance, such as a detergent, to which the skin has been sensitized, or a general allergy. Treatment is usually with a corticosteroid ointment.