What is eczema?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Eczema is a type of skin inflammation caused by multiple internal and external factors, characterized by various forms of rashes that usually have a significant tendency to exude fluid, hence the name "eczema." It usually comes with significant itching and is prone to recurrence, causing distress in patients' lives. Infant eczema is a common type of skin disease in babies and is a specific type of eczema. Commonly known as "milk cradle cap" in folk terminology, it is not a fungal disease but, like eczema, is an allergic reaction type of skin disease. Unlike other forms of eczema, however, infant eczema typically diminishes and often disappears as the child ages, with only a small fraction continuing into adulthood.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How to care for baby eczema that has broken skin

Babies develop eczema due to localized dry skin, which results in itchy skin. The child may scratch the itchy area, possibly causing the eczema to break open. Once broken, it is prone to secondary bacterial infections. To address a secondary bacterial infection, first, disinfect the area locally, then apply an antibiotic ointment to the child, such as mupirocin or erythromycin ointment. After the lesion heals, actively maintain moisture in the skin. If necessary, under the guidance of a hospital doctor, use mild corticosteroid ointments. Generally, eczema can be well-controlled. Additionally, for children on formula, depending on the severity of the eczema, feed them amino acid-based formula or hydrolyzed protein formula. If the child is breastfed, the mother should be mindful of her diet and avoid consuming beef, lamb, nuts, seafood, and fermented rice wine. (Please consult a doctor before using any specific medications and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What to eat for eczema

Patients with eczema can choose some foods that have the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, removing dampness and relieving itching, strengthening the spleen and aiding digestion, cooling the blood and calming the liver. However, dietary therapy only plays a supporting role in treatment and is not a professional method. Therefore, patients with eczema must actively seek treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Treatment of Vulvar Eczema

For the treatment of vulvar eczema, I believe the most important thing is to keep the vulva clean and dry. Regular cleaning of the vulva is necessary, and it should be kept as dry as possible. Additionally, try to avoid using sanitary pads as much as possible, because they can reduce breathability. Our clothing should also be as loose and breathable as possible, and avoid wearing synthetic underwear. Moreover, if there is itching and pain associated with vulvar eczema, topical corticosteroids can be applied to the vulva to relieve these symptoms and help heal the eczema. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What is infantile dry eczema?

Infant dry eczema, also known as fissure eczema, is mainly due to loss of skin moisture, reduced sebum secretion, dryness, and fine cracks in the epidermis and stratum corneum. The skin appears pale red, with cracks being more pronounced and resembling cracked porcelain. It can occur on many parts of the body, mostly seen on the limbs. This condition is commonly seen in winter when the air is dry and secretion decreases, further exacerbated by frequent hot water washing. Infant dry eczema is actually due to irritant contact dermatitis. Treatment can involve the application of emollients, such as petroleum jelly, vitamin E cream, and mineral oil, while also protecting the moisture within the skin. It is best not to use corticosteroids for treatment.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Symptoms of scrotal eczema

Scrotal eczema is a common type of eczema that is confined to the scrotal skin and can sometimes extend around the anus, and less commonly to the penis. Clinically, it often presents symptoms of chronic eczema: the scrotal skin becomes dry and thickened, with deeper wrinkles and a walnut-like appearance, often with thin crusts and scales, and darkened skin pigmentation, although there can also be pigment loss due to scratching. When exudation occurs, the scrotal skin can show erythema, edema, crusting, and fissuring. There is often intense itching, which can prevent sleep. Due to the difficulty of treatment and recurrent nature, the scrotal skin can undergo lichenification.