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Inadequate application

Improper application

Not treating family members who have close contacts

3.10. Eczemas

Eczemas are groups inflammatory skin conditions manifesting either as acute

eczematous lesions, which are characterized by active papules; erythema, excoriations

and oozing (weeping), sub acute eczemas, also have excoriation, erythema with
papules and scales or as a chronic eczematous lesion, characterized by thickening of

the skin, and accentuation of the creases (lichenification) and hyperpigmentations

3.10.1. Atopic dermatitis

The term atopy is a Greek word meaning "out of place” or strange. The hereditary
tendency to develop allergies to food and inhalant substances as manifested by

eczema, asthma and hay (allergic conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis) fever is called
atopy.

The prevalence of atopic diseases appears to be rising. Atopic dermatitis now affects
about 10 to 20% of the population.

It is the interaction of genetics and environmental factors that results atopic eczema.

More than ¼ of the offsprings of atopic mother develop atopic dermatitis in the first 3
months of life. If one parent is atopic, more than 50% of the children would develop

allergic symptoms by the age of two years and if both parents are affected, the chance
of the child to have allergic symptoms would be about 79%.

Diagnostic Criteria for Atopic Dermatitis
The diagnosis of atopic eczema is made by constellation of criteria.

Major criteria: one should have three of the following major criteria.
1. pruritus

2. typical morphology and distribution

A. flexural lichenification in adults

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