What are the effects and signs?
Diagnosis of eczema is based on examination of the skin by a clinician. The criteria listed here are those commonly used to diagnose atopic eczema in children. The hallmark of eczema is that the skin is itchy. Affected areas may look dry, flaky or red. There may be scratch marks or skin thickening. Eczema may be limited to small areas of skin or affect most of the body. The following features are commonly present -:
- Previous history of eczematous rash in the skin creases e.g. bend of elbow, behind knees
- Personal or family history of asthma or hay fever
- Tendency towards dry skin
- Flexural eczema (affecting backs of knees, front of elbows and inner side of wrist) - currently present or in the past
- Onset of skin condition under age 2 years
Other features which may be present -:
- Skin condition aggravated by contact with cats or dogs
- Skin condition aggravated by exposure to irritants such as soap and household cleaning chemicals
- Disturbed sleep due to itching and scratching
- Impact on quality of life
- Effect on schoolwork or family
- Bullying
Other conditions which increase care needs related to eczema i.e. care needs present in mild to moderate eczema or beyond age 10
- Any diagnosed behavioural condition which makes compliance with treatment on a daily basis difficult or prolonged.
- When eczema is one of a number of conditions which in combination require extra care and attention on a daily basis.
- Where there is a physical disability affecting upper limbs and application of emollients cannot be done independently.
