MEDICAL

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition believed to be caused by a defective skin barrier. It is characterized by dry, itchy skin that presents with red scaly patches, moist lesions or sores. While any region of the body may be affected, in children and adults, eczema typically occurs on the face, neck, and the insides of the elbows, knees, and ankles. In infants, eczema typically occurs on the forehead, cheeks, forearms, legs, scalp, and neck. Eczema is often called the “itch that rashes” because itching occurs and a skin rash appears from the scratching. Eczema tends to be worse in the winter months due to cold temperatures and low humidity. Atopic dermatitis is a subset of eczema, which is felt to have a hereditary and/or environmental association.