Ekzem

Ekzem, also known as eczema or atopic dermatitis in its common form, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed patches. It belongs to a family of dermatitis disorders with various triggers and courses.

Signs and symptoms: intense itching, dry skin, and recurrent patches of redness. Affected areas may blister, ooze, crust, crack, or thicken. In children, the face and flexural areas are frequently involved; in adults, the hands, wrists, and eyelids are common sites.

Causes and pathophysiology: the condition arises from an interaction of genetic susceptibility, skin barrier dysfunction (notably filaggrin defects), and immune dysregulation. Environmental factors such as irritants, allergens, climate, and infections can trigger flares.

Classification: the main form is atopic dermatitis. Other forms include contact dermatitis (irritant and allergic), dyshidrotic eczema (hand/foot blisters), nummular eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Diagnosis: clinical assessment based on history and examination. Patch testing may identify contact allergens. Additional tests are rarely required unless another condition is suspected.

Treatment and management: aim to restore the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Regular moisturizers; topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors for flares; in moderate to severe cases, phototherapy, systemic therapies, or biologics such as dupilumab. Trigger avoidance and treatment of secondary infections are important.

Prognosis and impact: usually chronic with periods of remission and relapses. Early and consistent management improves quality of life and may lessen severity over time.

Epidemiology: common worldwide, particularly in children. Prevalence varies by region and population; many children outgrow some symptoms, though adult-onset eczema occurs.