WHAT IS IT?
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition which causes itchy, red, and dry skin. It can affect both children and adults. Often times patients with eczema also have a history of asthma and allergies.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
Eczema patients have a defect in their skin barrier function making their skin irritated by certain triggers including soap, weather, and temperature. Stress, genetics and endocrine disorders can also be a factor.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS?
The treatment for mild to moderate eczema is topical steroids and proper bathing instructions such as using gentle cleansers, avoiding fragranced products, short-warm showers, and moisturizing daily.
Eucrisa is a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory, topical ointment which decreases the symptoms of atopic dermatitis such as itchy, redness, and thick skin. It should not be used on children younger than 2 years of age.
For moderate to severe eczema your doctor may decide that an injectable such as Dupixent is right for you. This biological medication works by controlling the body's inflammatory response. Dupixent is administered every 2 weeks and should only be used by people 12 and over.
Phototherapy is the use of ultraviolet light to treat moderate to severe eczema. Typically, this therapy is recommended for eczema that is all over the body or for localized areas such as the hands and feet which have not improved with topical treatments. Phototherapy improves the skin gradually after several weeks of regular treatments (2-3 times per week). It is very important sessions are attended regularly to optimise the success of treatment. Skin Center has the only NB-UVB machine in east Broward County.