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Allergic Eczema
Medical Questions » Allergic Eczema
| Name: Allergic Eczema |
| Also known as: |
| A skin rash caused by an allergic reaction. |
Causes of Allergic Eczema
Many substances (allergens) have the ability to cause an allergic reaction in an individual. In most cases, the first exposure of a patient to a substance causes no reaction, but this sensitizes the patient, and subsequent exposure can then cause an allergic reaction. Drugs, chemicals, metals, elements, plants, preservatives, rubber, cement, etc., may all be responsible. The reaction is worse if the patient is hot and sweaty, if the substance is caught in clothing, or is present at a point of skin flexion (eg. in the groin, under breasts, armpit). The condition is relatively uncommon in the young, and very common in the elderly. The sites of the rash correspond to the points where the allergen has touched the skin, and this may give a clue to its cause. |
Symptoms of Allergic Eczema
Red, scaling, itchy rash. |
Tests for Allergic Eczema
Once a substance is suspected, it can be confirmed by ' patch testing' , where a patch of the substance is applied to the skin, and the reaction noted. |
Treatment for Allergic Eczema
If possible, the allergen should be avoided. Otherwise, the rash is controlled by steroid creams on weeping areas, and steroid ointments on dry and scaling areas. In severe cases, steroids may need to be given by tablet or injection.
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Complications of Allergic Eczema of its treatment
Unavoidable exposure to an allergen can cause a persistent rash that is difficult to treat. |
Likely Outcome of Allergic Eczema
Most patients respond well to treatment for a particular attack, but the rash may recur on subsequent exposure to the allergen. |
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