From the Guidelines
Eczema is a broad term that encompasses several distinct types, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, stasis dermatitis, and neurodermatitis, each requiring specific management approaches. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory condition often beginning in childhood and associated with allergies and asthma, as noted in the guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis in adults with topical therapies 1. Some key types of eczema include:
- Atopic dermatitis: a chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin disease that occurs most frequently in children, but also affects many adults, often associated with a personal or family history of allergic rhinitis and asthma 1
- Contact dermatitis: occurs when skin touches irritants or allergens
- Seborrheic dermatitis: affects oily areas like the scalp and face, causing scaly patches
- Dyshidrotic eczema: creates small, itchy blisters on hands and feet
- Nummular eczema: presents as coin-shaped patches
- Stasis dermatitis: develops on the lower legs due to poor circulation
- Neurodermatitis: involves intense itching and scratching in localized areas Understanding your specific eczema type is crucial for effective treatment, as the underlying mechanisms differ—from immune dysfunction in atopic dermatitis to external irritants in contact dermatitis or vascular issues in stasis dermatitis. Management approaches may include moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and avoiding triggers, with severe cases potentially requiring oral medications like prednisone, cyclosporine, or biologics such as dupilumab.
From the Research
Types of Eczema
- Atopic dermatitis
- Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis
- Hand dermatitis, including:
- Recurrent vesicular type
- Hyperkeratotic type
- Asteatotic dermatitis
- Nummular or discoid dermatitis 2
Characteristics and Treatment
- Each type of eczema has distinct characteristics and treatment options
- Diagnostic options include clinical history, physical examination, and patch testing 2
- Therapeutic options include moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, crisaborole, phototherapy, and systemic medications including biologics 2