Prelims – Current events of national and international importance.
Mains – GS III | Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Why in news?
Recently, public health experts have advised the public to be aware of different types of eczema for correct diagnosis and appropriate management of the disease.
- Eczema – A skin disorder that induces skin inflammation while creating dryness and producing an intense itching sensation in millions of patients every year, globally.
- Non-contagious – It can’t spread through person-to-person contact.
- Causes
o A family history of eczema, exposure to environmental triggers (such as Pollen, dust mites, mold, cigarette smoke), stress, etc.,
- Pathology – It weakens skin’s barrier function, which is responsible for helping skin retain moisture.
|
7 Types of Eczema
|
|
Atopic
Dermatitis
|
- Development – From inherited characteristics as well as allergic processes.
- Controlled by – Using ceramide-rich moisturizers, a healthy diet, and a well-balanced lifestyle.
|
|
Dyshidrotic
Eczema
|
- A stressed person with allergic issues being exposed to metal can develop.
- Itchy blisters appears on one’s feet and hands.
|
|
Contact Dermatitis
|
- Allergic contact dermatitis – Caused by a reaction to allergic elements, metals, cosmetics, etc.,
- Irritant contact dermatitis – Caused as an immediate response to ingredients present in acids, soaps, detergents, or cleaning agents.
|
|
Nummular Eczema
|
- A coin-like appearance of scaly patches.
- It usually appearing on the arms and legs.
|
|
Stasis Dermatitis
|
- It is a condition of very little to poor blood circulation in their legs.
|
|
Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
|
- Non-contagious skin condition – Patchy, red, funal-like formations and white flakes around the glands that produce oil in the body.
|
- Challenges – The appearance of eczema differs across skin tones, often leading to incorrect diagnoses.
o In light skin tones – Appearing red and inflamed symptoms.
o In dark skin tones – Appearing purple, grey, or brown
- Several other skin conditions have similar symptoms.
|
Psoriasis vs. Eczema
|
- Similarities - Dry and itchy skin.
- Eczema demonstrates more inflammation.
- Psoriasis shows evident silvery scales and clear borders.
|
|
Fungal Infections vs. Eczema
|
- Fungal infections – Specific border characteristics that tend to appear in ring-shaped patterns.
- Eczema - Diffuse spreading is observed.
|
|
Rosacea vs. Eczema
|
- Eczema – It shows up across the body instead of only on the face.
- Rosacea – It makes the skin red, causing blood vessels to become visible.
|
- Management – There is no cure and can only be treated.
- Using topical steroids, application of moisturisers, taking natural oatmeal baths and implementing stress management practices.
A topical steroid is an anti-inflammatory preparation used to control eczema and other skin conditions.
Reference
The Hindu| Understanding the Different Types of Eczema
