Various types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis, present unique symptoms and often require customized treatment strategies.
Eczema is a chronic skin condition marked by dry, itchy, scaly patches and sometimes painful lesions or blisters. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), atopic dermatitis represents the most common form of eczema.
However, eczema actually encompasses seven distinct inflammatory skin disorders. Continue reading for detailed information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for each type.
Table of Contents
- Atopic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
- Dyshidrotic eczema
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Neurodermatitis
- Nummular eczema
- Stasis dermatitis
- Seeing a doctor
- Treatment
- Frequently asked questions
- Takeaway
1. Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent form of eczema.
It typically begins in childhood, usually between 2 months and 5 years of age, and often improves or resolves by adulthood. However, some people may experience periodic flare-ups or develop symptoms for the first time later in life.
Symptoms commonly appear on the arms or in the creases of elbows or knees, while children may also show symptoms on their scalp and cheeks. Avoid scratching any eruptions or lesions to prevent potential infection.
The exact cause remains unknown, but the condition develops when the skin’s natural barrier weakens, reducing protection against irritants and allergens. Likely triggers include genetic factors, dry skin, immune system dysfunction, and environmental elements like irritants, stress, and dry conditions.
2. Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to substances it touches, with two primary types:
- Allergic contact dermatitis: An immune response to irritants like latex or metals.
- Irritant contact dermatitis: Direct skin damage from chemicals or other substances.
Symptoms may appear within 48 hours after exposure to a triggering substance and include:
- Itchy skin appearing red, pink, or magenta (or brown, purple, or gray in darker skin tones)
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Hives
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Thickened, leathery skin
Common triggers include detergents, bleach, jewelry, latex, nickel, paint, poison ivy, skincare products like makeup, soaps, perfumes, solvents, and tobacco smoke.
3. Dyshidrotic eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx) causes small blisters on hands and feet.
Symptoms lasting 2-3 weeks include itchy, painful fluid-filled blisters that crack and flake, typically appearing on fingers, toes, palms, and soles.
Potential triggers include allergies, moist hands/feet, exposure to nickel/cobalt/chromium salts, stress, and smoking.
4. Seborrheic dermatitis
Often called scalp eczema, seborrheic dermatitis frequently affects the scalp.
In infants (cradle cap), it usually resolves permanently, but in adolescents and adults, it tends to persist.
Symptoms include oily, scaly patches with dandruff-like flakes, appearing on sebaceous gland-rich areas like scalp, hairline, upper back, nose, and groin. These patches may appear darker than surrounding skin in darker tones or lighter in fair skin.
The cause likely involves genetic and environmental factors. Initial triggers like stress or illness prompt skin inflammation and excessive Malassezia yeast growth, triggering immune responses.
Additional triggers include hormonal changes, illnesses, harsh chemicals, cold/dry weather, conditions like Parkinson’s disease, psoriasis, HIV, acne, and medications like interferon and lithium.
5. Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus) features 1-2 intensely itchy patches that worsen with scratching.
Symptoms include thick, scaly, extremely itchy patches on arms, legs, neck, scalp, feet, hands, or genitals. Scratching exacerbates symptoms and may cause bleeding or infection.
The exact cause is unknown, but it typically begins with an itch that intensifies with scratching (AAD).
6. Nummular eczema
Nummular (discoid) eczema appears as circular, coin-shaped lesions with intense itching.
Symptoms can persist for years untreated, beginning as small red/pink (or dark brown in darker skin) bumps that develop into itchy, flaky coin-shaped lesions.
The exact cause is unknown but may involve extremely dry skin. Those with existing eczema (like atopic dermatitis) are more susceptible.
7. Stasis dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis (AAD) primarily affects those with poor circulation when fluid leaks from weakened veins into skin, causing swelling, discoloration (red in light skin; brown/purple/gray in dark skin), itching, and pain.
Symptoms mainly appear on legs/ankles, including swelling after prolonged walking, heaviness/aching, varicose veins, dry itchy skin, and open sores.
It develops when faulty valves impair blood flow from legs to heart, causing blood pooling.
Seeing a doctor
Consult a dermatologist if you experience eczema symptoms for:
- Accurate Diagnosis: To distinguish eczema from similar conditions
- Personalized Treatment: Tailored to your specific type and severity
- Prescription Medications: When OTC options prove insufficient
- Complication Prevention: To avoid infections and scarring
- Ongoing Management: For chronic condition monitoring
- Quality of Life: To improve comfort and daily functioning
Early intervention helps control symptoms and prevent complications. Prioritize your skin health by consulting a dermatologist.
Treatment
Eczema treatment varies by type, severity, and individual factors, often combining lifestyle changes and medications through trial-and-error.
Options include:
- OTC moisturizers, antihistamines, soothing lotions
- Prescription topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors
- Biologics for severe cases
- Phototherapy (UV light treatment)
- Home remedies like wet wraps, oatmeal baths, moisturizing
Preventive measures include skincare routines, trigger avoidance, stress management, and balanced nutrition. Work with a healthcare provider to develop an effective management plan.
Frequently asked questions
The seven eczema types are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, and stasis dermatitis – each with distinct presentations and triggers.
While atopic and contact dermatitis are common, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, and nummular eczema are rarer.
Eczema refers to inflammatory skin conditions, while dermatitis specifically means skin inflammation. Dermatitis can be a symptom of some eczemas, which typically also involve dryness, itching, and lesions.
Triggers include irritants, allergens, stress, diet, smoking, medications, and medical conditions. Identifying and avoiding triggers helps manage flare-ups.
Takeaway
Key points about eczema:
- Chronic Condition: Eczema (atopic dermatitis) features red, itchy, inflamed skin with varying severity from genetic/environmental/immune factors
- Treatment Options: Moisturizers, topical/oral medications, phototherapy, biologics (for severe cases), and lifestyle changes
- Personalized Approach: Work with a dermatologist to develop customized treatment plans
- Self-Care: Regular moisturizing, gentle skincare, and stress management help control symptoms
- Early Action: Prompt medical consultation enables better management and prevents complications
With proper understanding, treatment, and professional guidance, eczema symptoms can be effectively managed to minimize impact on daily life.