Category Archives: Eczema

Regeneron could still get an on-time OK for an eczema drug, despite a recent legal loss to Amgen. (Regeneron)

Though Regeneron (REGN) and Sanofi's (SNY) LDL-buster lost in a patent battle with Amgen (AMGN), the duo could appease investors with an on-time approval of extreme eczema drug dupilumab, says RBC analyst Adnan Butt.

Butt expects dupilumab to beat expectations and turn momentum positive. The latter is particularly important after a U.S. District Court judge on Jan. 6 sided with Amgen in a patent battle pitting Amgen's Repatha against Praluent. In her decision, the judge banned Regeneron and Sanofi's Praluent.

Regeneron stock toppled 6% that day, and Sanofi shares dipped 3%. Since then, Regeneron shares have fallen an additional 3%. Praluent is slated to be pulled from shelves Feb. 21 if a federal circuit judge doesn't grant a stay on the injunction pending the appeal.

Analysts have already largely removed Praluent from their expectations for Regeneron, Butt wrote in a research report Monday. Fortunately for Regeneron and Sanofi, an on-time approval for dupilumab to treat extreme atopic dermatitis looks likely, he says.

"The FDA deemed the Sanofi facility 'acceptable' and Regeneron has a backup third-party facility it can use if it needs to," he wrote in a research report. "We forecast sales of $123 million while consensus for 2017 is $177 million to 196 million."

IBD'S TAKE: Analysts are largely cautious on biotechs entering Q4 earnings season. But Incyte is grabbing bullish views on its slew of potential blockbuster drugs. Get more on The New America.

Butt kept his outperform rating and 598 price target on Regeneron stock. In the stock market today, though, Regeneron stock slipped 0.58% to 344.50, and Sanofi edged upa fraction to 40.

Regeneron's pipeline "has delivered more than disappointed," Butt said.

Besides dupilumab,he's bullish on Eylea, an injection for wet macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema and macular edema following retinal vein occlusion. There, Regeneron faces competition from Novartis (NVS).

On its Q4 earnings conference call with analysts last week, Novartis noted Phase 3 data for its wet AMD drug, RTH258, is due in Q2.Novartis is seemingly aiming at fewer objections, Adnan wrote. But "Eylea sets a high bar," he added.

"What would be worth watching is if RTH258 dries patients who remain nonresponsive to Eylea, similar to how Eylea gained share over Lucentis and Avastin," he wrote.

This month, Regeneron preannounced $858 million in Q4 Eylea sales. Sequentially, growth has slowed over the past two quarters, but the consensus still sees year-over-year growth of 12% in 2017. A guide of 10% in 2017 could be well-received, Butt wrote.

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The Medicines Company outperformed Amgen stock early Friday, rocketing after No. 1 biotech Amgen said LDL-buster Repatha curbs cardiac events. (Kris Tripplaar/Sipa USA/Newscom)

2/03/2017 The Medicines Company outperformed Amgen stock early Friday, rocketing after Amgen said Repatha curbs cardiac events.

2/03/2017 The Medicines Company outperformed Amgen stock early Friday, rocketing after...

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Regeneron, Sanofi Could Appease LDL-Frustrated Buyers On Eczema Drug - Investor's Business Daily

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Daily moisturisation with Vaseline is a cost-effective way to stop eczema developing in high-risk infants, say researchers

Recent attention has turned to ways to prevent atopic dermatitis, which is associated with significant expenditure as well as comorbidities, from developing in children.

One study indicated that daily full-body application of moisturisers in high-risk infants results in a 50% reduction in the relative risk of the disease. Based on these data, researchers calculated the cost-effectiveness of seven different types of moisturiser when used daily in infants for six months.

They found that petroleum jelly (Vaseline) was the most affordable, at US$7.30 (6.00) for six months use, equating to a cost of $353 (290) per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Sunflower oil was the second most cost-effective treatment.

Reporting in JAMA Pediatrics[1] (online, 5 December 2016), the researchers say that given that treating a child with atopic dermatitis can cost several thousand dollars per year, prophylactic moisturisation could be an attractive and cost-effective option.

Citation: Clinical Pharmacist, Vol 9, No 2, online | DOI: 10.1211/CP.2017.20202256

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Daily Vaseline use could be cost-effective way to prevent eczema - The Pharmaceutical Journal

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In the United States alone, nearly 31.6 million people suffer from eczema which is defined as inflamed, rough blisters on the skin that cause severe itchiness (and anyone can get) at some point in their lives. And troublesome dry, itchy skin doesnt discriminate. Kim Kardashian West has publicly documented her struggle with psoriasis (another type of itchy red patches on the skin) and Brad Pitt reportedly borrowed cream from Cate Blanchettfor eczema that broke out when the two filmedThe Curious Case Of Benjamin Button.

And now as were in the heart of winter, this skin problems in its prime. In the winter time there is less water in the air, which makes it easier for skin to lose its moisture, N.Y.C.celebrity dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelmantold PeopleStyle. If you are prone to eczema, you are more likely to see flare ups with the weather change.

While factors like genetics and allergic histories play a role in who experiences eczema the most, it ultimately comes down to luck of the draw, according to N.Y.C. dermatologist Dr. Neil Sadick. And this time of year can be especially triggering for the condition after all, even those who dont have it tend to experience drier-than-ever, often super-itchy skin. We got the low down straight from top skincare experts in the field about how to keep your skin hydrated and stay comfortable this season.

1. Avoid Irritating Ingredients

Stay away from products with powerful ingredients like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids and Vitamin C when youre having a flare-up, Sadick recommends.

RELATED PHOTOS:The Best Hand Creams to Nourish Your Dry Skin This Winter

Avoid harsh soaps with fragrances too, Engelman adds. Plus, glycolic acid and salicylic acid dry out the skin and irritate it more. Store any anti-aging products with those ingredients for the time being, and pull them out in the summer months when your dry skins more manageable. Instead, opt for gentle, oil-based products for maximum hydration, minus the irritation.

Buy It!Boscia Tsubaki Beauty Oil, $46; sephora.com, Eucerin Eczema Relief Skin Protectant Creme, $7.50; amazon.com and S.W. Basics Body Scrub, $20.99; target.com

2. Layer Your Products

Engelman likes to apply multiple moisturizers to the body to thoroughly hydrate the skin during the colder months. Instead of applying one thick, heavy cream, layer products to provide multiple barriers. Start with the lightest product and finish with the thickest, she said. Engelman says she likes to apply a body oil in the shower, then immediately layer on a rich lotion formula as soon as she gets out.Try out the same regimen for dry skin on the face, too.

3. Rotate Your Lotions

If youre loyal to one lotion, your skins likely to become tolerant to its benefits. Use one two or three times a week and another two or three times a week, Sadick said. Every other day rotation is good.

Buy It!Embryolisse Lait-Crme Concentr (24-Hour Miracle Cream), $16;birchbox.com, June Jacobs Rapid Repair Healing Cream, $46.50; amazon.com and Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion, $6.49; target.com

4. Carry a Toner in Your Purse

N.Y.C. aesthetician Mzia Shiman, who works with celebrities like Ashley Graham and Bella Hadid, tells all of her clients suffering with eczema to use rose-infused skincare products thanks to its calming benefits. Get a soft toner with rose and put it in a little spray bottle to carry with you during the day, she said. Once you feel dehydrated after the gym or anywhere just spray it on your face. But check the ingredient list closely: Make sure it has no alcohol in it! Shiman warns. Eczema doesnt like anything that has alcohol.

Buy It!Fresh Rose Floral Toner, $40; nordstrom.com, Herbivore Botanicals Coco Rose Body Polish, $36;birchbox.comand Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist Intense, $65; sephora.com

5. Take Cooler Showers

Stop with the hot showers! Engelman warns. I know they can be tempting, but hot water can strip the natural oils from your skin, leaving it more dry and vulnerable. Alternating between extreme temperatures puts more stress on the first layer of skin, leaving it more dry. Steel yourself for a lukewarm shower and keep it short the payoff for your skin will be worth it.

6. Know When To See a Professional

These tips above work great for milder cases of eczema, but if your skin still feels unbearably itchy, you bleed from scratching or experience large blisters from dryness, its best to see a doctor. Sadick says professionals can prescribe steroid creams to alleviate the itch, and Shiman specializes in facials for those suffering from severe eczema.

Have you ever suffered from eczema or extremely dry and itchy skin? What works for you? Share your tips below!

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Skin Drier Than Ever? 6 Easy Ways to Fix It Now - PEOPLE.com

Atopic dermatitis, commonly referred to as eczema, is a chronic skin disorder categorized by scaly and itching rashes. People with eczema often have a family history of allergic conditions like asthma, hayfever or eczema.

Eczema is most common in infants (where it is known as infantile eczema) and at least half of those cases clear by age 3. In adults, it is generally a chronic or recurring condition.

A hypersensitivity reaction (similar to an allergy) occurs in the skin, causing chronic inflammation. The inflammation causes the skin to become itchy and scaly. Chronic irritation and scratching can cause the skin to thicken and have a texture like leather. Exposure to environmental irritants can worsen symptoms, as can dryness of the skin, exposure to water, temperature changes, and stress.

Studies have shown that children who are breast-fed are less likely to get eczema. This is also true when the nursing mother has avoided cow's milk in her diet. Other dietary restrictions may include eggs, fish, peanuts, and soy.

Eczema tends to run in families. Control of stress, nervousness, anxiety, and depression can be beneficial in treating/avoiding eczema in some cases.

Diagnosis is primarily based on the appearance of the skin and on personal and family history. The health care provider should examine the lesions to rule out other possible causes. A skin lesion biopsy may be performed, but is not always required to make the diagnosis.

Call and make an appointment with your health care provider if your eczema does not respond to moisturizers or avoiding known allergens, if your symptoms worsen, if treatment is ineffective, or if signs of infection (such as fever, redness, pain) occur.

Consult your health care provider for a diagnosis of eczema because it can be difficult to differentiate from other skin disorders. Treatment should be guided by the health care provider.

Treatment may vary depending on the appearance (stage) of the lesions -- acute "weeping" lesions, dry scaly lesions, or chronic dry, thickened lesions are each treated differently.

Anything that aggravates the symptoms should be avoided whenever possible, including any food allergens and irritants such as wool and lanolin.

Dry skin often makes the condition worse. When washing or bathing, keep water contact as brief as possible and use less soap than usual. After bathing, it is important to trap the moisture in the skin by applying lubricating cream on the skin while it is damp. Temperature changes and stress may cause sweating and aggravate the condition.

Treatment of weeping lesions may include soothing moisturizers, mild soaps, or wet dressings.

Mild anti-itch lotions or topical corticosteroids (low potency) may soothe less severe or healing areas or dry scaly lesions.

Chronic thickened areas may be treated with ointments or creams that contain tar compounds, corticosteroids (medium to very high potency), and ingredients that lubricate or soften the skin. Systemic corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation in some severe cases.

The latest treatment for eczema is a class of skin medications called topical immunomodulators (TIMs). These medications are steroid-free. They include tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel). Studies have shown a success rate as high as 80% among patients using these new medications.

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Eczema Information from Drugs.com

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7 Foods that Cause Eczema

Eczema may be caused by a wide range of factors, including foods. Avoiding some foods can prevent the occurrence of eczema in some cases, but when the eczema is hereditary, the food you eat has very little to do with the outbreaks. Learning what foods can trigger eczemas is essential. 1. Dairy Produ ... Continue Reading

7 Foods that Cause Eczema

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4 Natural Remedies to Soothe Eczema Outbreaks

Eczema is a condition in which the skin becomes irritated, flaky and uncomfortable. Seen in children as well as in adults, this condition's cause is unknown, making its treatment difficult. Though many patients will use steroids, both topical and oral, in order to manage the eczema outbreaks, those ... Continue Reading

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Eczema Natural Treatment: Probiotics

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Eczema Natural Treatment: Probiotics

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Types of Eczema: Venous Eczema

Eczema, also called dermatitis, is any inflammatory skin condition. Venous eczema, which is also known as stasis dermatitis, is a rather common condition affecting the lower extremities of the over-50 age group afflicted with chronic venous insufficiency. Cause of Venous Eczema Normal veins have one ... Continue Reading

Types of Eczema: Venous Eczema

Eczema, also called dermatitis, is any inflammatory skin condition. Venous eczema, which is also known as stasis dermatitis, is a rather common condition affecting the lower extremities of the over-50 age group afflicted with chronic venous insufficiency. Cause of Venous Ecz ... Continue Reading

5 Ways to Prevent Eczema Outbreaks

Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a skin condition that may cause irritated, dry and itchy skin. The irritation may occur on any area of the body, but is more common on the face, neck, elbows, knees and ankles. There are 2 types of eczema: atopic and contact eczema. Depending on the type, you may Continue Reading

5 Ways to Prevent Eczema Outbreaks

Dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a skin condition that may cause irritated, dry and itchy skin. The irritation may occur on any area of the body, but is more common on the face, neck, elbows, knees and ankles. There are 2 types of eczema: atopic and contact eczema. Depen ... Continue Reading

Eczema Treatment: Oral Corticosteroids

Oral corticosteroids are among the many kinds of eczema treatment medicines aimed at curbing symptoms of an acute eczematous flare-up. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that presents itself in various forms, giving rise to many kinds of symptoms. Typical symptoms of eczema include swelling and crac ... Continue Reading

Eczema Treatment: Oral Corticosteroids

Oral corticosteroids are among the many kinds of eczema treatment medicines aimed at curbing symptoms of an acute eczematous flare-up. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that presents itself in various forms, giving rise to many kinds of symptoms. Typical symptoms of eczema ... Continue Reading

Eczema Treatment: Skin Barrier Emulsions

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Eczema Treatment: Skin Barrier Emulsions

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Eczema Treatment: Immunosuppressants

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Within the niche of eczema treatment, immunosuppressants are commonly prescribed and used to suppress extreme eczema flare-ups. Most eczema sufferers have a few periods of exacerbated symptoms wherein their usual medical aids don't seem to work. At such times, immunosuppress ... Continue Reading

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Best Moisturizer for Eczema

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Types of Eczema: Xerotic Eczema

There are many different types of eczema. One type of eczema that many people suffer from during the fall and winter months is Xerotic Eczema. This type of eczema occurs when the skin becomes abnormally dry and itchy. During the winter months, it is harder to maintain the mo ... Continue Reading

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Eczema at SkinCareGuide.com

Did you know that the skin is the largest and fastest-growing organ in the body?1 It holds fluids in, keeps harmful microbes out and balances your body temperature, and even plays a crucial role in vitamin D production from sun exposure.2 There is no doubt that it is one of your bodys most important organs.

Unfortunately, there are many conditions that can affect your skin health. One example is eczema, a disorder that makes your skin red, itchy and scaly.3 Whats interesting is that it is more common today than it has ever been before.

Scientists believe this is due to a direct connection between a parents health conditions in this specific area and their childs.4

Eczema usually appears in the first 6 months up to 5 years of a childs life. Infants typically develop it on their face, often affecting the cheeks and chin. Yet, it can appear on any part of the body and the symptoms may differ from one child to another.

In most cases, the symptoms will go away as a child grows older, but some children will continue to suffer from it into adulthood. However, adults can also develop this condition suddenly.5

If you think that you or your child has eczema, you are not alone. More than 30 million Americans have this skin disorder, according to the National Eczema Association,6 and at least 17.8 million of them are suffering from moderate to severe eczema.7

Eczema is a resilient skin disorder, typically getting worse the longer you have it. There is no cure for it, but there are ways to manage the symptoms.8

Conventional methods generally involve the use of topical steroids, but be warned that these drugs can cause a variety of side effects such as thinning of the skin, discolorations and unwanted hair growth. Certain topical steroids can even reach your bloodstream, causing adverse effects (especially on children).9

This is why effective natural treatment methods that dont have potential adverse effects are recommended. For instance, a research published in the British Journal of Dermatology indicates that a diet rich in omega-3 fats can help people with eczema, reducing the severity of their symptoms.10 More detailed information on alternative therapies will be covered in the treatment page.

You should remember that treating eczema depends on the particular type and how severe it is. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, a chronic and inflammatory condition. Its cause is still unknown, but it occurs when your immune system goes into overdrive.11 The other common types are contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, hand eczema and neurodermatitis.

Learn about the different types of eczema, its causes, symptoms and the best treatment options for this condition. Discover how you can control your symptoms through a special diet. Through these articles, you will discover all the essential information you need to treat and manage this skin disorder.

What Is Eczema?

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Eczema: An Introduction to This Chronic Skin Disorder

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema, is a type of inflammation of the skin (dermatitis). It results in itchy, red, swollen, and cracked skin. Clear fluid may come from the affected areas, which often thicken over time.[1] The condition typically starts in childhood with changing severity over the years.[1][2] In children under one year of age much of the body may be affected. As people get older, the back of the knees and front of the elbows are the most common areas affected. In adults the hands and feet are the most commonly affected areas.[2] Scratching worsens symptoms and affected people have an increased risk of skin infections. Many people with atopic dermatitis develop hay fever or asthma.[1]

The cause is unknown but believed to involve genetics, immune system dysfunction, environmental exposures, and difficulties with the permeability of the skin.[1][2] If one identical twin is affected, there is an 85% chance the other also has the condition.[3] Those who live in cities and dry climates are more commonly affected. Exposure to certain chemicals or frequent hand washing makes symptoms worse. While emotional stress may make the symptoms worse it is not a cause. The disorder is not contagious.[1] The diagnosis is typically based on the signs and symptoms. Other diseases that must be excluded before making a diagnosis include contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis.[2]

Treatment involves avoiding things that make the condition worse, daily bathing with application of a moisturising cream afterwards, applying steroid creams when flares occur, and medications to help with itchiness.[2] Things that commonly make it worse include wool clothing, soaps, perfumes, chlorine, dust, and cigarette smoke. Phototherapy may be useful in some people. Steroid pills or creams based on calcineurin inhibitors may occasionally be used if other measures are not effective.[1][4] Antibiotics (either by mouth or topically) may be needed if a bacterial infection develops.[2] Dietary changes are only needed if food allergies are suspected.[1]

Atopic dermatitis affects about 20% of people at some point in their lives.[1][5] It is more common in younger children.[2] Males and females are equally affected.[1] Many people outgrow the condition.[2] Atopic dermatitis is sometimes called eczema, a term that also refers to a larger group of skin conditions.[1] Other names include "infantile eczema", "flexural eczema", "prurigo Besnier", "allergic eczema", and "neurodermatitis".[6]

People with AD often have dry and scaly skin that spans the entire body, except perhaps the diaper area, and intensely itchy red, splotchy, raised lesions to form in the bends of the arms or legs, face, and neck.[7][8][9][10][11]

AD commonly occurs on the eyelids where signs such as Dennie-Morgan infraorbital fold, infra-auricular fissure, periorbital pigmentation can be seen.[12] Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on the neck gives the classic 'dirty neck' appearance. Lichenification, excoriation and erosion or crusting on the trunk may indicate secondary infection. Flexural distribution with ill-defined edges with or without hyperlinearily on the wrist, finger knuckles, ankle, feet and hand are also commonly seen.[13]

The cause of AD is not known, although there is some evidence of genetic factors, and some evidence that growing up in a sanitary environment encourages AD.[8]

It seems to have a genetic component. Many people with AD have a family history of atopy. Atopy is an immediate-onset allergic reaction (type 1 hypersensitivity reaction) as asthma, food allergies, AD or hay fever.[7][8] In 2006 it was discovered that mutations in the gene for the production of filaggrin strongly increased the risk for developing atopic dermatitis. Most importantly two mutations were found that affect approximately 5% of people in Western Europe that may disrupt the production of filaggrin. Filaggrin is a protein that plays an important role in the retention of water in the stratum corneum. People who have these mutations often have dry skin.[14] Filaggrin also plays an important role in keeping the skin surface slightly acidic, hence giving it anti-microbial effects. It breaks down into trans-urocanic acid, which keeps the pH low.[15]

According to the hygiene hypothesis, when children are brought up exposed to allergens in the environment at a young age, their immune system is more likely to tolerate them, while children brought up in a modern "sanitary" environment are less likely to be exposed to those allergens at a young age, and, when they are finally exposed, develop allergies. There is some support for this hypothesis with respect to AD.

Those exposed to dogs while growing up have a lower risk of atopic dermatitis.[16] There is also support from epidemiological studies for a protective role for helminths against AD.[17] Likewise children with poor hygiene are at a lower risk for developing AD, as are children who drink unpasteurised milk.[17] Exposure to dust mites is believed to contribute to one's risk of developing AD.[18]

A diet high in fruits seems to have a protective effect against AD, whereas the opposite seems true for fast foods.[17]

Atopic dermatitis sometimes appears associated with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.[19][20]

An atopy patch test can be used to determine whether or not a specific allergen is the cause of the rash. The test involves applying a series of allergens to the skin surface and evaluating the results in one to three days.[21][22]

People with atopic dermatitis are more likely to have Staphylococcus aureus living on them.[23]

There is no known cure for AD, although treatments may reduce the severity and frequency of flares.[7]

Applying moisturisers may prevent the skin from drying out and decrease the need for other medications.[24] Affected persons often report that improvement of skin hydration parallels with improvement in AD symptoms.[7]

Health professionals often recommend that persons with AD bathe regularly in lukewarm baths, especially in salt water, to moisten their skin.[8][25] Avoiding woollen clothing is usually good for those with AD. Likewise silk, silver-coated clothing may help.[25] Dilute bleach baths have also been reported effective at managing AD.[25]

Vitamin D is an effective treatment for AD.[26]

Studies have investigated the role of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) supplementation and LCPUFA status in the prevention and treatment of atopic diseases, but the results are controversial. It remains unclear if the nutritional intake of n-3 fatty acids has a clear preventive or therapeutic role, or if n-6 fatty acids consumption promotes atopic diseases.[27]

Several probiotics seem to have a positive effect with a roughly 20% reduction in the rate of atopic dermatitis.[28] The best evidence is for multiple strains of bacteria.[29]

In people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, a gluten free diet improves their symptoms and prevents the occurrence of new outbreaks.[19][20]

Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone have proven themselves effective in managing AD.[7][8] If topical corticosteroids and moisturisers fail, short-term treatment with topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus may be tried, although they are usually avoided as they can cause skin cancer or lymphoma.[7][30] Alternatively systemic immunosuppressants may be tried such as ciclosporin, methotrexate, interferon gamma-1b, mycophenolate mofetil and azathioprine.[7][31] Antidepressants and naltrexone may be used to control pruritus (itchiness).[32]

A more novel form of treatment involves exposure to broad or narrow-band ultraviolet (UV) light. UV radiation exposure has been found to have a localized immunomodulatory effect on affected tissues and may be used to decrease the severity and frequency of flares.[33][34] In particular, the usage of UVA1 is more effective in treating acute flares, whereas narrow-band UVB is more effective in long-term management scenarios.[35] However, UV radiation has also been implicated in various types of skin cancer, and thus UV treatment is not without risk.[36]

Since the beginning of the twentieth century, many mucosal inflammatory disorders have become more common; atopic eczema (AE) is a classic example of such a disease. It now affects 1530% of children and 210% of adults in developed countries and in the United States has nearly tripled in the past thirty to forty years.[8][37] Over 15 million American adults and children have atopic dermatitis.[38]

Evidence suggests that IL-4 is central in the pathogenesis of AD.[39] Therefore, there is a rationale for targeting IL-4 with anti-IL-4 inhibitors.[40]

Diseases of the skin and appendages by morphology

Continued here:
Atopic dermatitis - Wikipedia

What Is Eczema?

Eczema is a descriptive term for a chronic skin condition that usually begins in early childhood. It is seen most commonly in individuals who have family members who have asthma and hay fever. This is not to say that eczema is a classical allergic disease. There seems to be general agreement that this condition is inherited because of the complete loss or relative lack of a skin protein.

There are criteria that must be met before the diagnosis of eczema is considered. In most patients, the condition began in childhood. Patients develop plaques of weeping, oozing skin that are very itchy. A personal or family history of eczema, asthma, and/or inhalant allergies is helpful. In older children or adults, the lesions of eczema tend to occur in the folds of the skin in front of the elbows and in the folds of skin behind the knees. Eczema tends to improve in most patients as they get older.

The belief that the cause of eczema seems to be a defect in the production of a particular skin protein (filaggrin) is currently quite popular. All of the other problems that seem to be present in those afflicted include dry skin, hyper-reactivity to wool, itching during sweating, colonization by pathogenic staph bacteria, predisposition to disseminated herpes simplex infections, and a variety of immunologic abnormalities.

There is a debate about which comes first in atopic eczema, the itching or the rash. This is analogous to the chicken and egg controversy. It really does not matter. When the rash is in an acute stage, it is weepy and oozy. Later after the patient has been rubbing and scratching for some weeks, it becomes a plaque of thickened skin. This is called lichenification.

Atopic eczema has a typical distribution on the surface of the skin; this can be quite helpful in making the correct diagnosis. In crawling children in diapers, the rash is frequently seen on the elbows and knees but spares the diaper area. In older children and adults, the rash is often present in the folds of skin opposite to the elbow and kneecap but spares the armpits. Other areas commonly involved include the cheeks, neck, wrists, and ankles.

Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is one of a number of eczematous eruptions that need to be distinguished. This is important because treatment depends on the correct diagnosis. We'll take a look at the listed types on the following slides.

Atopic eczema is an inherited skin condition more common in individuals with a personal or family history of eczema, inhalant allergies like asthma or hay fever. Patients develop weeping, oozing, itchy lesions in a characteristic distribution. The severity depends to a great extent on the amount of moisture in the skin.

Atopic eczema is less common in very humid environments and is harder to control in arid areas in the wintertime. It often begins in infancy and improves in most people as they reach adulthood.

Contact dermatitis is a dermatitis that occurs in response to exposure to an irritant or allergenic substance. Irritants cause skin damage by producing direct toxic damage to the skin cells. Contact allergens are not necessarily irritating or toxic but are recognized by the immune system. Once the immune response is stimulated, a dermatitis occurs at the site of exposure.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic recurrent dermatitis, and it is probably the most common of all rashes in adults. The rash characteristically appears on the scalp, forehead, brows, ears, the folds that extend from the nose to the lips (nasolabial folds), middle of the chest, and middle of the back. It occurs in infants as cradle cap. Its course is distinguished by periods of improvement followed by flares.

With nummular eczema, round plaques of eczematous skin often appear on the lower legs. It often is seen in the elderly and seems to be associated with dry skin.

Lichen simplex chronicus is a localized, thickened area of skin caused by itching and rubbing. Although there is usually some inciting cause, the origin of the problem is entirely obscured by the eruption. Any of the eczematous eruptions can evolve into lichen simplex chronicus if rubbed long enough.

Stasis dermatitis usually occurs on the lower legs of patients who have sustained damage to the valves present in the large veins responsible for returning blood to the heart. These valves, along with muscular contractions of the leg muscles, help propel venous blood from the periphery to the lungs and heart. Damage to these valves causes a long column of blood to produce enough hydrostatic pressure on the wall of the vein so small leaks occur. The lower legs swell and brownish blood pigment is deposited in the skin from degradation of hemoglobin. A dermatitis often occurs, and skin ulcers are common.

Dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx) is a common but poorly understood condition in which very itchy small blisters occur on the lateral surface of the fingers, toes, hands, and feet. Many patients note exacerbations during periods of high stress (for example, finals week).

In order to make an accurate diagnosis of eczema, it is important for your physician to take a complete history and examine all of the areas of skin that are affected. Occasionally, certain laboratory tests can be helpful in distinguishing various types of eczema. A pathologist may need to examine skin scrapings and even a small piece of biopsied skin.

Once the diagnosis of atopic eczema is established, there are certain well-established approaches to treating this condition. One of the most important is to keep the skin well moisturized. There are many inexpensive approaches to maintaining the moisture content of the skin. Once the skin is wet, a thin layer of a cream or ointment is applied to prevent the moisture from evaporating. Judicious use of such substances (emollients) can be very effective in limiting flares of atopic eczema.

Corticosteroid creams are very effective at controlling the inflammatory component of atopic eczema. The thickened, itchy, weepy lesions respond well to the applications of such creams. In addition, oral antihistamines are effective in suppressing the itching sensation as well as acting as a sleep aid during flares.

Newer drugs have become available for the treatment of atopic eczema; they claim to be devoid of the side effects of topical steroids. These newer medications inhibit the immune response by inhibiting calcineurin, an enzyme necessary for a normal inflammatory response. Though they are quite effective, they are also quite expensive and seem to lack potency when compared to the strongest topical steroids. Ultraviolet light exposure can effectively control eczema in certain patients because of its effect on inflammatory cells in the skin.

Applying a good moisturizer to damp skin is the most effective method for limiting flares of atopic eczema. Try the measures listed on this and the following slide to control and help prevent outbreaks of eczema.

Since the condition is inherited, it would be very difficult to prevent its development entirely. Living in a warm, humid environment seems to limit flares of atopic dermatitis. Sleeping with a humidifier in the bedroom can be of some help. In some patients, adding chlorine bleach to bathwater can be quite helpful (1/2 cup of bleach to a bathtub of warm water). It is important to rinse off before applying an emollient.

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Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

What can I do about eczema and atopic dermatitis?

Eczema and atopic dermatitis cant be cured, but they can be managed, and you can learn to avoid the things that trigger them.

Some things that may irritate your skin include household cleansers, detergents, aftershave lotions, soap, gasoline, turpentine and other solvents. Try to avoid contact with things that make you break out with eczema. Soaps and wetness can cause skin irritation. Wash your hands only when necessary and use a mild unscented soap such as Dove, Basis or Oil of Olay, especially if you have eczema on your hands. Dry your hands completely after you wash them.

Wear vinyl or plastic gloves for work that requires you to have your hands in water. Also, wear gloves when your hands will be exposed to anything that can irritate your skin. Wear cotton gloves under plastic gloves to soak up sweat from your hands. Take occasional breaks and remove your gloves to prevent a buildup of sweat inside your gloves.

Wear gloves when you go outside during the winter. Cold air and low humidity can dry your skin, and dryness can make your eczema worse.

Wool and some synthetic fabrics can irritate your skin.

Bathe only with a mild unscented soap, such as Dove, Basis or Oil of Olay. Use a small amount of soap. Keep the water temperature cool or warm, not hot. Soaking in the tub for a short time can be good for your skin because the skins outer layer can absorb water and become less dry. Soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Then use a soft towel to pat your skin dry without rubbing. Immediately after drying, apply a moisturizer to your skin. This helps seal in the moisture.

Moisturizers help keep your skin soft and flexible. They prevent skin cracks. A plain moisturizer is best. Avoid moisturizers with fragrances (perfume) and a lot of extra ingredients. A good, cheap moisturizer is plain petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline). Use moisturizers that are more greasy than creamy, because creams usually have more preservatives in them.

Regular use of a moisturizer can help prevent the dry skin that is common in winter.

Too much heat and sweat can make your skin more irritated and itchy. Try to avoid activities that make you hot and sweaty.

Eczema can flare up when you are under stress. Learn how to recognize and cope with stress. Stress reduction techniques can help. Changing your activities to reduce daily stress can also be helpful.

The area where you had the eczema may easily get irritated again, so it needs special care. Continue to follow the tips in this handout even after your skin has healed.

Read more:
Eczema and Atopic Dermatitis - familydoctor.org

Not all fruits and veggies are good the eczema body.

Eat more fruits and veggies because they are super healthy!

You need vitamins from fruits and fiber from veggies!

As cliches go, it sounds like these plant foods are mandatory in our lives or else we will die, or at least, be in poor health.

However, speaking in the perspective of an eczema sufferer, not all fruits and vegetables are created equal not all of them are eczema-friendly.

As an eczema sufferer, we need to avoid certain fruits and veggies.

In this article, Ill list them out and explain why, even though plant foods are nutritious and beneficial in many ways, they are disadvantageous to eczema patients overall.

This article is not designed to defame fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are indeed high in different types of nutritional values and are extremely good for the human body, but not every body responds the same way, so each individual needs to adapt to his/her body needs.

When I mean certain plants are NOT friendly to eczema sufferers, its just the consequences of eating them to an eczema body overrides the nutritional benefits of eating them.

In essence, we need to find out our bodys list of accepted foods and also, to avoid specifically to eczema-unfriendly plant foods.

Nightshades is the family of foods: potatoes (but not sweet potatoes and I highly encourage you to eat them regularly), tomatoes, tobacco, red and green peppers, paprika, eggplants (these are the common ones).

Nightshades naturally contain a group of chemicals called alkaloids.

Plants produce alkaloids as a regular part of their biochemical activity, and these alkaloids are primarily designed to help protect the plants from insects that would otherwise eat them.

And these plant protective mechanisms when ingested just hinder our recovery. For a meaty explanation, read this article.

Some of these foods may be a staple food in your diet, but you can always find substitutes. For nightshades, you can switch for:

Sarah, who runs Vegetalion, with nightshade allergies, wrote four great articles on finding alternatives:

A common problem today is that many people consume way too much sugar.

But assuming that you have no intake of any man-made snacks and drinks. It is still possible to consume a lot of sugar with natural foods.

Vegetables are not a problem, the highest sugar content of veggies are potatoes (which you dont have to care), carrots and beets. But the sugar content of veggies is too low for you to need to reduce intake. So dont worry too much about this.

The reason why sugar intake needs to be limited is because the more sugar you ingest, the more food you give to harmful micro-organisms to feed on in your gut. Yeasts, especially, live on sugar.

As for fruits, avoid these high sugary fruits: tangerines, oranges, cherries, grapes, pomegranates, mangoes, guavas, lychees, figs, bananas and especially dried fruit.

Instead, choose low sugar fruits: lemon, lime, raspberries, blackberries, cranberries, papayas, watermelon and most others are okay. Just avoid the ones mentioned above.

For a more details, go check out Fruits And Vegetable : List of Low and High Sugar Fruit and Vegetable.

The Dirty Dozen is the official term coined by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) that refers to the annual top 12 plants contaminated most heavily by pesticides.

Dirty Dozen: top 12 most contaminated plants are:

New extras: Kale/collard greens and Summer squash.

Clean 15: the top 15 least likely to be contaminated are:

Check out the EWGs 2013 Shoppers Guide to Pesticides in Produce for the official lists.

The reason why Im telling you this is to warn you that when you consume one of the Dirty Dozen (you dont have to completely avoid it), you should cook it long enough, soak it in water overnight, or even peel off the skin to eliminate the residue of pesticides, so you dont end up suffering from the chemicals more than the nutrients you get from the food.

Acidifying refer to foods that leave an acidifying effect in the body after digestion, not its pH value upon tasting.

For a person with eczema, we should aim for a 80-20 balance where 80% of our food is alkalizing and 20% acidifying. Essentially, that means mainly veggies and less meats.

You should be aware that many fruits are actually acidifying. Fruits are great but shouldnt be consumed in mass.

Common strongly acidifying foods include:

Instead, indulge yourself in strongly alkalizing foods:

There are other categories: acidifying, alkalizing, strongly alkalizing; this is only a small list.

Read more on Acid-Alkaline Food Charts (also usable as a grocery shopping list).

You now know what NOT to eat, so what should you be eating?

Here are 10 choices that are highly specifically beneficial to improve skin conditions:

Sweet potatoes are one of the best foods in the world. I eat several daily.

Fermented foods.

Fruits are not normally fermented veggies are the main target e.g. kimchi, pickled veggies, sauerkraut and more. Any plants can be fermented.

Fermented foods are extremely good for people with eczema because fermented foods contain live cultures beneficial micro-organisms that help digestion and the removal of toxins in the gut, which is crucial for healing up eczema.

Ive personally made my own kimchi before, and wrote a guide about it, added with other fermentation resources.

Check it out: How To Make Fermented Kimchi (For Fresh Gut Bacteria)

In brevity, avoid the four evil categories as mentioned above:

Again, if a particular fruit or vegetable gives you a sensitivity, you know what not to eat. This differs with everyone. For me, I have a sensitivity to papayas, green capsicums and kiwis (as far as I know) the skin area my mouth turns red.

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Not All Fruits and Veggies Are Eczema-Friendly (The 4 ...