Eczema is a chronic inflammation of the outer layers of the skin. It is most common in infants and children. It can occur in adults. This condition is not contagious. Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis.

The exact cause of eczema is unknown. Factors that may contribute to eczema include:

• Genetics
• Environment
• Allergies —may include allergies to things that touch the skin (such as wool or perfumes in soaps), allergies to dust mites (very common), or allergies to foods
• Stress, especially if it leads to scratching
• Frequent washing of affected areas
• Use of rubber gloves in persons sensitive to latex
• Scratching or rubbing of skin

Factors that increase your chance of eczema:

• Age: five years old or younger (eczema becomes less common after the ages of 5-10)
• Asthma or hay fever
• Urban areas or places with low humidity
• Relatives who have eczema or allergic disorders
• Race: Black or Asian

The symptoms vary from person to person. Scratching and rubbing can cause or worsen some of the symptoms. Symptoms include:

• Dry, itchy skin
• Cracks behind the ears or in other skin creases
• Rashes on the cheeks, arms, and legs
• Red, scaly skin
• Thick, leathery skin
• Small, raised bumps on the skin
• Crusting, oozing, cracking, or scaling of the skin
• Worsening in the winter, when inside air is dry due to central heating

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to specialist. A dermatologist focuses on skin disorders. An allergist focuses on allergies.

The main goals of eczema treatment are to:

• Heal the skin and keep it healthy
• Stop scratching or rubbing
• Avoid skin infection
• Prevent flare-ups
• Recognize and avoid precipitating allergens, if there are any
• Learn to avoid scratching

Treatment options may vary. Your doctor may recommend more than one depending on your condition. They include:

• Avoid hot or long baths or showers. Keep them less than 15 minutes.
• Use mild, unscented bar soap or nonsoap cleanser. Use it sparingly.
• Air-dry or gently pat dry after bathing. Apply gentle moisturizer right after.
• Treat skin infections right away.

• Prescription creams and ointments containing cortisone, tacrolimus, or pimecrolimus
• Oral medications (eg, prednisone or cyclosporine )—for severe cases
• Antibiotics applied directly to the skin or taken by mouth (only for treating infections)
• Prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines to help prevent itching

• Treatment with ultraviolet light (by a doctor)
• Photopheresis—for severe cases