Can eczema be inherited?

Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Eczema does not have a genetic predisposition. Patients with atopic dermatitis likely experience rashes due to genetic factors, and their offspring may also inherit this propensity for allergies. However, different members within the same family can suffer from different allergic diseases.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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How to treat baby eczema?

Infant eczema is a common type of skin allergic inflammation in children, with a higher incidence in infants and young children. General care for infant eczema primarily involves skin care, focusing on moisturizing the skin. Children who are allergic in nature are more susceptible to eczema triggered by allergens, hence it is crucial to avoid allergens. It is advisable to wear cotton clothing, preferably in light colors, which are soft and comfortable. It is best to avoid synthetic fibers or animal fur clothing, as these can easily cause allergies. Additionally, skin moisturizing is important; it is recommended to keep bath times under ten minutes and the water not too hot. Avoid using alkaline bath products, which can scrub the baby's skin and potentially damage the skin barrier, worsening the eczema. The recommended water temperature is around 38 degrees Celsius, and bathing time should not exceed ten minutes. Room temperature should not be too warm. The room's air humidity should be maintained between 50% to 70%. It is advisable for infants not to be overly full when feeding, as excessive food intake can burden their digestive system and potentially exacerbate eczema. Mothers should be cautious with their diet, avoiding spicy, stimulating foods or allergenic foods like seafood. For baby rashes, moisturizers, predominantly those with a simple composition like mineral oil and free of dyes and fragrances, are recommended. Avoid using diluted lotions with a high water content. Applying moisturizer within about 3 minutes after bathing can optimize moisture retention. If the eczema is extensive with noticeable exudation or redness, and the baby is noticeably distressed, further medical consultation should be sought at a hospital. Dermatologists can prescribe appropriate medication based on the baby’s condition. It is generally not recommended for parents to use corticosteroid ointments on their own due to potential side effects and risks of improper use.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What is eczema?

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 Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How to cure eczema?

To effectively treat chronic eczema, it is essential first to identify specific triggers and avoid contact to prevent recurrence. Under the guidance of a doctor, oral antihistamines can be administered, commonly options include chlorpheniramine maleate, cetirizine, loratadine, ebastine, and epinastine. In severe cases, infusion therapy might be an option, utilizing calcium gluconate injection or procaine vein blockage. For topical medications, one might choose corticosteroid creams such as desonide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or opt for non-steroidal options like Mentholatum Dermacare Cream or Moisture-Removing Anti-Itch Cream. When eczema occurs, it can also be beneficial to combine traditional Chinese medicine and differential diagnosis with Western medicine for better results. Additionally, a light and bland diet is recommended.

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Written by Liu Li
Pediatrics
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Symptoms of infantile eczema infection

Infant eczema is a very common skin disease in young babies. There are many causes of infant eczema, with the main reason being allergic factors, which are closely related. The symptoms of eczema include the production of many rashes. The most common locations are the baby's face, and many babies might have rashes all over their bodies. Eczema can easily recur, especially when exposed to allergenic substances or when consuming allergenic foods. Additionally, damp skin is also a significant factor. All these causes can lead to a worsening of eczema. It is crucial not to let the child scratch the affected area, as breaking the skin can lead to infection symptoms.

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Written by Zhai Yu Juan
Dermatology Department
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Does scabies transmit from mother to baby?

Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease caused by infection with the human papillomavirus, commonly referred to as HPV. There are many types of HPV, which can cause various conditions including genital warts, flat warts, common warts, or cervical cancer. Genital warts are almost always transmitted through sexual contact. Additionally, they can also be spread through close personal contact, blood transmission, and from mother to child. Mother-to-child transmission primarily occurs when the virus is transmitted to the newborn through the birth canal during delivery, leading to the infection of the newborn with genital warts.