Atopic Eczema Patient Information - what you need to know

What is atopic eczema?

Atopic eczema, also known as eczema or atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that affects many people. It causes red, itchy, and sometimes painful patches on the skin. It can happen to anyone, but it's most common in children and young adults.

What causes atopic eczema?

The exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, but it is related to a combination of genetics and environmental factors. People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema are more likely to develop atopic eczema. In many cases, mutations in the filaggrin gene may also play a role in the development of atopic eczema. Filaggrin is a protein that helps maintain the skin barrier and retain moisture. When there are mutations in this gene, it can lead to a weakened skin barrier and dry skin, which may increase the risk of developing atopic eczema. 

It's important to note that while filaggrin mutations can increase the risk of developing atopic eczema, not everyone with a filaggrin mutation will develop the condition. Other factors, such as environmental triggers and lifestyle choices, can also play a role in the development and severity of atopic eczema. Environmental factors include contact with soaps, detergents and any other chemicals applied to the skin, exposure to allergens, and infection with certain bacteria and viruses. Atopic eczema cannot be caught from someone else. 

What are the symptoms of atopic eczema?

The symptoms of atopic eczema can vary from person to person, but they usually include:

• Red, itchy, and dry skin

• Scaly or crusty patches on the skin

• Small bumps that may leak fluid and form crusts when scratched

• Thickened or leathery skin

How is atopic eczema treated?

There is no cure for atopic eczema, but there are very effective ways to manage the symptoms. 

Treatment may include:

• Using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated

• Prescription strength topical corticosteroid anti-inflammatory ointments

• Prescription oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching

• Advanced biologic treatments including dupilumab 

Your dermatologist may recommend different treatments based on the severity of your eczema.

Avoidance of Allergens:

Whilst atopic people often have allergies, it is important to know that the allergy is not the cause of atopic eczema. These allergens can however make atopic eczema worse. Some of the allergens you may have are:

• Air borne allergy - like pet hair, pollen, grass, or dust mites in the air 

• Food allergy - in babies and young kids with severe and difficult to control eczema, certain food allergens could be making eczema worse. If you think food is making your baby’s atopic eczema worse, talk to your dermatologist before changing your diet.

• Latex (rubber) allergy - People with atopic eczema are also more likely to have a reaction to rubber products like gloves or balloons, which can make the skin itchy.

• Contact allergy - sometimes, the creams and ointments used to treat atopic eczema can actually make it worse. If this happens, please tell your dermatologist  

What can I do to prevent atopic eczema?

While there is no surefire way to prevent atopic eczema, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Avoid irritants, such as harsh soaps and detergents

• Use a moisturizer 2-3 times daily to keep the skin hydrated

• Wear loose-fitting clothes made from soft, breathable fabrics

• Have short showers that are not too hot

• Treat eczema early - the worse it is, the harder it is to get it under control

In conclusion, atopic eczema can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but it's important to remember that it can be managed well with the right treatments and self-care. If you think you may have atopic eczema, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.