Dermatology Made Simple : Eczema ( Dermatitis) Definitions and Classification

Eczema

Eczema or Dermatitis is the inflammation of the skin.

It is characterized by :

Skin dryness,

Scales and

Skin rashes.

It has a number of causes

Classification

Eczema can be classified as below :

Endogenous Eczema :

This includes :

Atopy/ Allergy

Discoid

Seborrhoea

Exogenous / Contact:

This includes :

Allergic

Photosensitivity

Irritants

Secondary:

Includes Infections.

Clinical Features:

Eczema can present withacute or chronic onset

Acute cases are characterized by redness,vesicles and exudation.

Chronic cases are characterized by scales,dryness and thickening of the skin.

Eczema is itchy and with time there maybe loss of skin surface,secondary bacterial infection.

Chronic changes can also cause loss and change of skin pigmentation