Kate Blake Lead Nurse Dermatology Eczema Kate Blake Lead Nurse Dermatology

What is eczema? An inflammatory condition affecting the upper layers of the skin. Can cause itching, blisters, erythema, swelling, oozing, scabbing, scaling. (K. A. G Lane (ed), 2000)

Prevalence Estimated 20% of all patients with a skin condition, seeking advice (Hunter et al 1995)

Acute Eczema What are the signs?: heat erythema swelling pain, often in the form of itch (Stevens et al 1989)

Subacute Eczema Erythema but less blister formation than acute eczema Less thickening of the epidermis than chronic eczema Shows features of both acute eczema & chronic (Stevens et al 1989)

Chronic Eczema Thickening of the skin and scaling Increased pigmentation possible. Fissures (cracks) possible End stage of long-standing, unresolved, acute or sub-acute eczema. (Stevens et al 1989)

1. Chronic 2. Sub acute 3. acute

Left: Eczema herpeticum Right: Secondary infection

Treatments Avoid Triggers Emollients Topical steroids Occlusive bandages Wet wraps Antihistamines UVL Systemics Secondary Care

Interactive Time

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