Eczema, Atopic

Eczema, Atopic:

  • Atopic eczema is a genetic disorder, with environmental influences.
  • Its prevalence in children is approximately 20%.
  • It is not curable but is treatable and this difference is important to discuss with carers.
  • Itch is the principal symptom and can cause sleep disturbance and difficulty concentrating.
  • In the great majority of children with mild to moderate eczema that responds to topical treatment food allergy is not a significant contributing factor
Derm Paeds Infantile EczemaDerm Paeds Infected EczemaDerm Paeds chronic eczema
Infantile Eczema Search DermNet | DermNet (dermnetnz.org)Infected EczemaSearch DermNet | DermNet (dermnetnz.org)Chronic EczemaSearch DermNet | DermNet (dermnetnz.org)

Who to refer:

  • Diagnosis is or becomes uncertain.
  • Eczema is not controlled despite following the advice on the Primary Care Management tab.
  • Erythrodermic eczema (involving > 80-90% of skin surface area).
  • Eczema herpeticum (an acute, painful, blistering flare of eczema) is suspected – discuss with on-call dermatologist immediately for advice. 
  • Eczema causing severe psychological or social difficulties.
  • Recurrent infection
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