COULD THAT ITCHY, SCALY, CRUSTY RASH BE ECZEMA?

London Dermatology | 1 September 2024

Chronic inflammatory, itchy skin disease known as atopic eczema usually first manifests in early childhood and can run in families. It might not go away or it might flare up and then go away. When eczema weakens the skin barrier, skin is more susceptible to allergens and irritants. This could potentially make the eczema worse.

The cause of eczema is often difficult to identify. Testing, such as skin prick testing, typically fails to pinpoint the cause. In childhood, atopic eczema usually fades away or improves, although it can also infrequently last into adulthood. Some children who have atopic eczema also develop asthma, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and/or food allergies.

It is important to recognise a flare-up. This will include increased dryness, itching, redness, swelling and general skin irritability.