ECZEMA- Atopic dermatitis- CONTACT DERMATITIS

ECZEMA

 Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is manifested by a rash of "weeping" blisters. Later, the area may become dry and scaly. Eczema occurs most frequently in the bends of elbows and knees and on the face and neck. It is common in children, many of whom also have hay fever and allergic asthma. The condition can be stubborn, especially in adults. Some children benefit when an allergenic food is found and removed from the diet.

 Usual medicines for allergy are not very helpful for eczema. Treatment is directed toward stopping the itching, since scratching aggravates the rash. Two possible complications are of concern: adults may develop cataracts in the eyes after many years; both children and adults with eczema may have severe reactions to smallpox vaccination. The doctor knows how to prevent and handle these complications.

CONTACT DERMATITIS

 In this type of allergy, which occurs upon direct contact with an offending substance, the reaction is almost always localized in the skin. There is usually a rash which clears rapidly when the offend- ing agent is removed. To test for this type of allergy, suspected offending substances are placed on the skin and covered with bandages. After one to three days, the sites are inspected to determine whether any of the substances has produced a small rash typical of the patient's allergic reaction. Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are well-known contact allergens. 

The reactions produced by their oils can be disabling in particularly sensitive people, especially if the eyes or face are affected. Sometimes the oils can be washed off with strong laundry soap. Antihistamine is helpful, plus application of soothing creams or lotions to affected skin areas.

 In severe cases, steroid medicines are given. As we have noted earlier, hair dyes and hair curling preparations should be tested for allergic sensitivity before use. Dozens upon dozens of substances can cause local allergic reactions when applied to the skin. The best preventive measure is to stop wearing or using an offending item if it can be identified. Often, the patient may suspect what it is; in other cases, the doctor can help identify it. 

Here, according to site, are some common contact allergens: Scalp: Lotions, tonics, pomades, soap, hair dyes and rinses, wave sets, shampoos, patent dandruff removers, hair brush bristles, plastic combs, bathing caps, massage brushes, hair nets, hair pins and curlers, toupees, wigs.

Note: Dermatitis produced by substances used on the scalp may appear predominantly and sometimes even exclusively on eyelids, neck, ears, face, even the hands. Forehead: Hat bands, linings or other hat materials; massage creams; suntan lotions and other cosmetics; hair nets; celluloid visors; helmets; dye. Eyelids: Mascara, eyebrow pencil, eyelash curlers. Also substances used elsewhere such as cosmetics, soaps, hand lotions, face powders, nail polishes and lacquers. The eyelids may be affected, too, by insect sprays, nasal sprays, perfumes, airborne pollens, clothing dust, furs, gloves, fabrics, dyed clothing.