Discoid Eczema

Discoid eczema or nummular eczema is a chronic disorder of the skin mostly in adults which is more common on forearms, hands, lower legs and occasionally on the trunk. Discoid eczema has edges which are well defined and oval or circular plaques consisting of scaling and raised red spots extending from over a millimetre up to few centimetres. It aggravates in dry environment like central heating and should be treated immediately otherwise it may take from a few months to a few years. There is normally itchiness on patches of discoid eczema which will make them sore and finally it may get infected by bacteria.

Causes of discoid eczema

There is no definite known cause for eczema, even a minor injury to skin like skin burn or insect bite may lead to eczema, Skin allergy also does not lead to eczema, though discoid eczema patients do report atopic eczema also. There is also no evidence of it running in families. Eczema aggravates in dry skin or environment and is more common with persons taking heavy consumption of alcohol. Some cases of emotional stress have been also associated as one of the likely cause.
How to diagnose eczema
A General Physician can easily diagnosis by physical examination of affected areas. It begins with appearance of round or an oval plaque of red spots and blisters which are slightly raised. The redness is quite prominent and appearance becomes crusty and oozy and if left unattended these affected areas of the skin dry up and scale formation starts taking place and the skin becomes clear in the centre and it looks like a case of fungal infection. It is also possible that your doctor may advise you to further testing or refer you to a dermatologist (Skin Specialist)

General Precautions

Avoid detergents and soaps which include shower gel and bubble bath
Avoid woollen cloths next to skin and use cotton cloths
Regularly cut fingernails and they should be kept clean and short to avoid damage due to skin scratch
Use emollient while bathing

Glossary

Immune system: It is the defence system of the body which protects against viruses, bacteria or diseases.
Acute: Occurring over a short period of time or suddenly
Antibiotic: Medicines like erythromycin, streptomycin or amoxicillin used for infection treatment caused by fungi, bacteria or micro-organisms
Homeopathy: A type of natural medicine which activate body’s immune system by producing minor symptoms of a disease or infection.
Allergic: A reaction of a substance with the body’s immune system.
Corticosteroid: Adrenals gland hormone or synthetic hormone which reduces inflammation or swelling and pain.
Emollient: Cream or lotion (Lubricant) helps make skin soft and paliable
Antihistamine: Medicine like loratadine or hydroxyzine which counters histamine action (a chemical produced by allergic reaction)