Eczema
What It Is

Eczema literally means ”skin of fire.“ It is not a specific diagnosis and can refer to almost any rash. Dermatitis and eczema are often used interchangeably. Some of the more common types of eczema are atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis and asteototic dermatitis. The list could take this entire page. What these conditions have in common is that most of them itch. Some itch so severely they can literally drive someone insane; others itch less severely.

Finding out the type of eczema and a proper treatment is one of the most challenging aspects of dermatology. Certain infections such as ringworm may look like eczema; a skin scraping, culture or biopsy may be needed to make the correct diagnosis.

Treatment
  • Include allergen/irritant avoidance
  • Gentle soaps and cleansers
  • Hydrate the skin with various lotions, creams or ointments
  • Sometimes topical steroids
  • Occasionally oral medications and other treatments

Finding the proper diagnosis and therapy is our goal at Piedmont Dermatology Center. Dr Gross receives great satisfaction in ending the suffering caused by eczema for his patients.

The contents of PiedmontDermatology.com are for general educational and informational purposes only and not to be misconstrued as treatment advice or medical diagnosis. This information does not replace the advice of a physician, nor does it imply a physican – patient relationship between the reader, Dr. Gross and Piedmont Dermatology Center.