We discuss about Eczema below.
ECZEMA IN ADULTS AND CHILDREN
Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic Dermatitis, otherwise known as Atopic Eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It is characterized by itchy, dry patches or bumps. Common triggers include: heat, sweat, dust, emotional stress and infections.
The disease commonly begins in childhood but can also develop in adulthood. In Singapore, studies have shown that 1 in 5 school-going children suffers from Atopic Dermatitis. Patients with poorly controlled disease often report severe itch and uncontrollable scratching which negatively affects their quality of life.
Eczema in Babies and Children
If you are a parent struggling to care for a child suffering from eczema, you are not alone. About 1 in 5 children in Singapore suffers from Eczema, which is also known as “ Atopic Dermatitis” .
Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which often starts during infancy or early childhood. Common triggers in children include: heat, sweat, infections ( eg coughs and colds) and vaccinations.
Allergy Assessment / Allergy testing
Allergic skin reactions can be broadly divided into 2 types:
- Immediate skin reactions – which typically presents with hives, angioedema
- Delayed skin reactions – which can trigger different types of rashes eg eczema/ maculopapular rash/ blistering eruption
Immediate reactions tend to develop very quickly, within minutes or hours after the body encounters the allergen. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may develop.