Eczema

Being diagnosed with Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease. Skin is the body’s largest organ and one its most important roles is to protect the body and internal organs from external threats such as irritants and germs. Patches of eczema, which is dry, red and itchy skin, form when the immune system is triggered by a substance (often environmental such as pet dander or soap). Eczema may come and go depending on exposure to irritants. This is described in terms of ‘flares.’ In addition to causing discomfort, eczema can also lead to self-confidence issues when it appears on the face, hands, and other visible areas of the body. There are several different forms of eczema. The most common form is called atopic dermatitis and it affects millions of people worldwide (atopic dermatitis is also commonly an interchangeable name for eczema). Eczema can be diagnosed by a primary care provider or dermatologist after a physical exam and medical history review. The doctor may also perform a patch test which involves applying different substances to the skin and then observing for any change or reaction.

Understanding your options

It may take some ‘trial and error’ to find out what things or combinations help bring eczema under control. The first line of defense, maybe even before an official diagnosis, is usually over-the-counter skincare products. Moisturizer that hydrates the skin can help lessen the itch of dryness or the soreness of cracked skin. Any products are ideally free of fragrance to lessen the chance of further irritating the skin. It is also wise to try and identify the causes eczema outbreaks. Some people make notes about their flare ups to find a pattern around what may be causing them. While this may point to something easy to avoid, like a certain kind of food, in some cases, stress causes flare-ups. When this is so, it is important to find ways to reduce stressful situations and attempt to modify stress reactions. Ultimately many people with eczema end up using prescription therapies for help. Today there are many options. A doctor may first prescribe a corticosteroid cream to try and bring the intensity of the flare-up down. If no relief, an oral steroid medication, immunosuppressant, or newer injectable (a "biologic") may be prescribed.

Advances in treatment

There have been many new treatments for eczema made available in recent years. One of the most exciting developments has been in the form of targeted therapies known as “biologics.” These injectable therapies work by blocking pathways that are known to lead to a flare-up. This approach harnesses the immune system and has been effective in reducing the intensity of eczema symptoms for many patients. Another class of treatment, Janus Kinase inhibitors (JAK), has also shown good success in reducing moderate or severe eczema outbreaks. JAK inhibitors are typically taken as pills. There is also ongoing research into new topical creams or ointments that can provide targeted relief with limited side effects. Lastly, researchers continue to study how eczema develops in the first place, looking at connections to diet and the presence of specific bacteria.

You can get involved

So many advances offer new hope for those living with eczema. Today there are many clinical trials studying new therapies that may one day provide relief as a standard treatment. Until then, the studies are in need of patient volunteers to help demonstrate if they are effective. Sign-up today to see what trials may be recruiting and in need of participants that sound like you!

RECRUITING TRIALS

References

Eczema | Cleveland Clinic (updated October 25, 2022)
How to manage eczema – according to a dermatologist | MSN/Telegraph News Article (March, 2024)
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) | Mayo Clinic (updated May 15, 2024)
Atopic Dermatitis vs Eczema: How Do They Differ? | VeryWell Health (updated June 25, 2022)