Eczema
Introduction
Eczema, also referred to as atopic dermatitis is a disease that affects the skin and usually starts at the childhood state. The condition makes one’s skin red and itchy. The disease is non-contagious. Though its cause has not been fully understood it is believed to be as a result of an overactive immune system that reacts aggressively when it comes into contact with irritants (Joji,2002). Other times, the disease can be triggered by an abnormal response to proteins or early exposure to strong antigens. Statistics indicate that at least half of the people suffering from moderate to severe Eczema will also suffer from asthma, food allergies, and hay fever. This report seeks to delve deep and learn more about Eczema and how it can be managed.
Types of Eczema
Seven known types of Eczema comprise of:
- Atopic dermatitis- This is as a result of a malfunction in the immune system.
- Contact Dermatitis- This is caused by the skin coming into contact with a known irritant or allergen.
- Dyshidrotic Dermatitis- Caused by an exposure to allergens and affects the feet and hands as itchy blisters.
- Neurodermatitis – It manifests itself as thick, scaly patches on the skin and is caused by too much scratching and rubbing of the skin.
- Nummular Eczema (Discoid Eczema) – It appears as round lesions on the skin that usually weep fluid and is caused by allergens. It especially affects the older populations.
- Seborrheic dermatitis- Affects the parts of the skin that have oil-producingg glands and appears as white or yellow flaky, greasy patches.
- Statis dermatitis- This happens as a result of poor blood circulation to the legs causing the veins to swell and start leaking fluids.
The Eczema prevalence
In the US, approximately 9.6 million children are living with Eczema, a third of them suffering from moderate to chronic. The figures of children infected has been rising steadily to 12% from 8% since 1997. In adults, it is estimated that about 16.5 million of them suffer from the disease. Most of these adults developed the disease at the age of less than two years. 40% of these adults suffer from moderate to severe Eczema. More females than males are affected by the disease among adults, but the figure in male and female children is almost similar. In Europe, the prevalence of AD has been on an upward trend over the last four decades though there is a lack of scientific data to back up this claim. Most data is obtained from the patient-reported outcome through the use of questionnaires. However, the trend in the European countries continues to match those reported from global studies: First, the disease is more common in urban and overcrowded areas. Second, symptoms are worse in cold and temperate climate and last, children are more affected by Eczema as compared to adults (Silverberg, 2017)
Eczema Pathogenesis
Eczema is based on very complex gene interactions, environmental triggers and immune dysregulation. According to multiple investigations, there is a strong genetic susceptibility for AD. There have been numerous groundbreaking discoveries that have positively identified at least 46 genes linked to Eczema. The genes such as the filaggrin (FLG) mutate and cause variations. The FLG genes are prevalent in certain regional populations than others and their mutations found in 10-15% of people suffering from Eczema. Gene mutation may lead to a disturbed epidermal layer that consequently leads to dry skin as a result of high transepidermal water loss. It may also lead to enhanced penetration of allergens and other irritative substances into the skin (Silverberg, 2017)
Eczema Diagnosis
Researchers have still not found a specific test for many types of Eczema. Doctors therefore try to look at an individual’s personal and family medical history and also ask about whether one was recently exposed to any allergens or irritants. The doctors may also try to ask about certain factors such as sleep patterns, stress, and previous treatment for any skin condition among others. The performance of a patch test is also essential in the diagnosis of Eczema. Here, the doctor injects a needle containing potential irritants and allergens into a patient’s skin (Niggemann, Reibel, & Wahn, 2000).
Treatment
Eczema has no known cure and so the treatment will mainly involve the management of its symptoms to try and prevent further flare-ups. Some of the ways of managing Eczema include the use of moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated so as to reduce itching and cracking. Steroid creams will reduce the swelling, redness and soreness of the skin. Doctors may also recommend the use of antihistamines to reduce the itching and some antibiotics to treat bacterial skin infections (Joji, 2002). In the prevention of potential flare-ups, patients are advised to use gental soaps and detergents and avoid fragrances or perfumes. They are also supposed to dry their skin gently after bathing and avoid scratching or rubbing parts affected by the Eczema as this may make it worse and increase the chances of infection. Additionally, wearing clothes made of natural fibers and avoiding tight clothing is also highly recommended.
Conclusion
Eczema is a pediatric disease that can be attributed to many causes such as genetics and the environment. It is a disease that is on an upward trajectory and continues to affect many people around the globe, especially the children. Though there is no specific diagnosis for specific type of Eczema, doctors have different strategies and methods of diagnosis. The disease cannot be completely cured but researchers have many recommendations that, if followed, one can be able to manage their situation and avoid chances of a flare-up or new infections. Use of moisturizers, avoiding scratching of infected areas and potential irritants are some of the measures that can help one effectively manage their situations.
References
Joji, T. A. D. A. (2002). Diagnostic standard for atopic dermatitis. JMA Policies, 45(11), 460-5.
Niggemann, B., Reibel, S., & Wahn, U. (2000). The atopy patch test (APT)–a useful tool for the diagnosis of food allergy in children with atopic dermatitis. Allergy, 55(3), 281-285.
Silverberg, J. I. (2017). Public health burden and epidemiology of atopic dermatitis. Dermatologic clinics, 35(3), 283-289.
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