The presentation of eczema varies in different age groups. Eczema is a group of non-contagious inflammatory skin conditions that most commonly affects children. The affected areas also differ according to the patient’s age.
In Infants:
In infants, it presents as a dry, itchy, scaly patch and the most involved areas are:
- Scalp
- Face (particularly the cheeks)
- Elbow
- Knees
In Children:
In children, eczema occurs within two years of age and is characterized by dry and scaly patches over the skin folds like:
- Hip joint
- Neck
- Wrist
- Ankles
- Creases of elbow
- Creases of knee
- Creases of buttocks
Over time, the skin becomes inflamed and appears red, bumpy, discolored, and thicker.
What causes atopic dermatitis in children?
There are several factors involved in the development of eczema in children. They are:
- Genetic factor: Children with a family history of allergies, and asthma are more prone to atopic dermatitis.
- Immune system: When there is a sensitivity of a child’s skin to anything, and the immune system reacts strongly to it.
- Environmental factors: These include the exposure of the child to anything in the environment like pollutants, dust, tobacco smoke, soap, detergent, or factors like temperature.
Who is at risk for atopic dermatitis?
If the child has both the following factors, he is more prone to have atopic dermatitis:
- Family history
- Allergy
How is atopic dermatitis diagnosed in a child?
The doctor can tell you by physically examining the skin of the child and taking the complete case history. Also following are the tests used to diagnose this condition:
Blood test:
The child is tested for IgE(Immunoglobulin E) levels which are generally high in allergies. IgE is released by the immune system of the patient.
Skin test:
A skin biopsy test is recommended, where a tiny sample of the skin is taken and sent for investigation.
How can parents help their child with eczema?
The skin should be moisturized properly at least twice or thrice a day. The best time to apply moisturizer is after showering. Also, it is necessary for skin hydration as lotions or moisturizers contain a lot of water.
- Kids should take a short bath and that too with warm water. Harsh soaps or body washes shouldn’t be used. You can use mild soap or non-soap cleansers.
- Soft cotton clothes should be used as wool or polyester might be harsh on the skin.
- Kids should drink plenty of water.
- Eliminate known allergens from households.
- Maintain your room temperature slightly cool and keep your child away from the heat.
- Keep your child’s nails short so that he can’t scratch the skin and skin damage can be prevented.
Can atopic dermatitis be complicated?
Yes, it can lead to skin thickening, bacterial infections in inflamed areas, or allergic dermatitis.
- If left untreated, it can lead to poor skin, disturbed sleep, and may lead to depression also.
- The inflammation can penetrate the skin and may involve the underlying tissues.
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