Eczema：Definition，Types

What is eczema?

Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. It is not dangerous, but most types cause red, swollen and itchy skin. Factors that can cause eczema include other diseases, irritating substances, allergies and your genetic makeup. Eczema is not contagious.

Types of eczema

The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is an allergic condition that makes your skin dry and itchy. It is most common in babies and children.

Other variants include:2

Allergic contact eczema (dermatitis) - a reaction where the skin has come into contact with a substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign

Contact eczema - a localized reaction where the skin has come into contact with an allergen

Dyshidriotic eczema - irritation of skin on palms of hands and soles of feet, characterized by blisters

Neurodermatitis - scaly patches of skin on head, forearms, wrists, lower legs caused by localized itch such as an insect bite

Nummular eczema - circular patches of irritated skin that can be crusted, scaling and itchy

Seborrheic eczema - oily, scaly yellowish patches of skin, usually on scalp and face

Stasis dermatitis- skin irritation on lower legs, usually related to circulatory problems.