eczema

eczema An inflammatory reaction of the skin in which there are tiny blister-like raised areas in the early stage followed by reddening, swelling, bumps, crusting, and thickening and scaling. Eczema characteristically causes itching and burning. Also known as atopic dermatitis. Eczema is a very common skin problem that may start in infancy, later in childhood, or in adulthood. It can be caused by allergies, diabetes, sunburn, or unknown reasons. It can be treated with medications, commonly topical cortisone creams that reduce inflammation. There are numerous types of eczema, including atopic dermatitis, contact eczema, seborrheic eczema, nummular eczema, neurodermatitis, stasis dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema.