Xerotic eczema

Xerotic eczema is a form of eczema that is characterized by changes that occur when skin becomes abnormally dry, red, itchy, and cracked. It tends to occur more often during the winter and in dry conditions. The lower legs tend to be especially affected, although it can appear in the underarm area as well.

Xerotic eczema
Other namesEczema craquelé, Pruritus hiemalis, Asteatotic eczema, Winter itch,[1]:81 Desiccation dermatitis, and Winter eczema[2])
SpecialtyDermatology

Xerotic eczema is common in elderly people, though it is not uncommon for people in their 20s. It can appear in red, bumpy, pimple-like irritations. Shaving can cause it to become inflamed.

Diagnosis

Treatment

The first method that should be taken when treating xerotic eczema is attempting to re-hydrate the dry skin using a humidifier and bathing/showering less frequently in warm water. Mild and moisturizing soaps should be used to prevent further irritation.[3] Avoiding scratching the affected area and applying anti-itch or moisturizing lotion frequently would also help in reducing dryness.

If the re-hydration process does not alleviate the symptoms, moisturizers such as Lac-Hydrin 5% or 12% moisturizer containing urea can be used; furthermore, if the skin becomes inflamed or cracked, mid- to high-potency corticosteroids can be used.[4]

A study published in 2005 found positive results from soaking the affected area in water for twenty minutes and then applying mid- to high-strength corticosteroid ointment.[5]

See also

References
  1. James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005). Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. (10th ed.). Saunders. ISBN 0-7216-2921-0.
  2. Rapini, Ronald P.; Bolognia, Jean L.; Jorizzo, Joseph L. (2007). Dermatology: 2-Volume Set. St. Louis: Mosby. ISBN 978-1-4160-2999-1.
  3. Mash, Marlene J.; Fedor, Maria; Bonnington, Lucy (2007-01-01). "Skin Problems". Primary Care Geriatrics: 612–623. doi:10.1016/B978-032303930-7.50061-4. ISBN 9780323039307.
  4. Mash, Marlene J.; Fedor, Maria; Bonnington, Lucy (2007-01-01). "Skin Problems". Primary Care Geriatrics: 612–623. doi:10.1016/B978-032303930-7.50061-4. ISBN 9780323039307.
  5. Gutman AB, Kligman AM, Sciacca J, James WD. Soak and smear: a standard technique revisited. Archives of Dermatology. 2005 Dec;141(12):1556-9.


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