What is infantile dry eczema?

Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
Updated on October 19, 2024
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Infant dry eczema, also known as fissure eczema, is mainly due to loss of skin moisture, reduced sebum secretion, dryness, and fine cracks in the epidermis and stratum corneum. The skin appears pale red, with cracks being more pronounced and resembling cracked porcelain. It can occur on many parts of the body, mostly seen on the limbs. This condition is commonly seen in winter when the air is dry and secretion decreases, further exacerbated by frequent hot water washing. Infant dry eczema is actually due to irritant contact dermatitis. Treatment can involve the application of emollients, such as petroleum jelly, vitamin E cream, and mineral oil, while also protecting the moisture within the skin. It is best not to use corticosteroids for treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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The difference between prickly heat and eczema

Prickly heat and eczema, although both are skin-related diseases, have significant differences. Firstly, looking at the causes, prickly heat mainly results from excessive sweat due to overheating and high temperatures which cannot escape. Eczema, on the other hand, is caused by a variety of internal and external factors such as allergies, seasons, and weather, leading to an allergic skin disease. Regarding treatment, prickly heat can be addressed with prickly heat powder or some cooling ointments, which often result in a cure. In contrast, eczema is typically treated with antihistamines or astringent medications. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
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How to cure eczema?

To effectively treat chronic eczema, it is essential first to identify specific triggers and avoid contact to prevent recurrence. Under the guidance of a doctor, oral antihistamines can be administered, commonly options include chlorpheniramine maleate, cetirizine, loratadine, ebastine, and epinastine. In severe cases, infusion therapy might be an option, utilizing calcium gluconate injection or procaine vein blockage. For topical medications, one might choose corticosteroid creams such as desonide ointment or hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or opt for non-steroidal options like Mentholatum Dermacare Cream or Moisture-Removing Anti-Itch Cream. When eczema occurs, it can also be beneficial to combine traditional Chinese medicine and differential diagnosis with Western medicine for better results. Additionally, a light and bland diet is recommended.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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What should not be eaten with eczema?

The pathogenesis of eczema is very complex. As for which foods should be avoided, it is based on frequent observation. If you are unsure about which foods to avoid, you can go to the hospital for allergen testing. It is important to be cautious about dietary restrictions for babies, and while avoiding certain foods, it is also necessary to ensure the intake of nutrients.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How to distinguish eczema from prickly heat

Eczema and heat rash have clear differences, including different causes. Eczema is primarily caused by allergens, as well as excessive mental stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances. Heat rash, on the other hand, usually arises from overly humid and hot environments that affect normal sweating function, leading to blocked sweat ducts. Their clinical manifestations also differ. Eczema typically presents as polymorphic and symmetrically distributed lesions, usually manifesting as papules and vesicular papules, and in severe cases, erosion, exudation, and significant itching are observed. Heat rash clinically appears as tiny, pin-sized blisters that emerge in clusters and merge into patches, typically found at skin folds without symmetry. White heat rash generally has less noticeable itching, whereas red heat rash is itchy and can also feel burning.

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Written by Tong Peng
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What to do if a child's eczema does not improve?

If childhood eczema is not improving, then it is crucial to actively search for the cause, rather than merely treating the symptoms. The care for childhood eczema mainly involves moisturizing and applying eczema ointment, but treating the primary cause is most important. The causes of eczema are varied, with common factors including genetics. If a child's parents have allergic rhinitis, eczema, or asthma, it suggests that the baby might have an allergic constitution, which can lead to recurrent episodes of eczema. Additionally, diet plays a role; consuming foods that are allergens can also trigger eczema flare-ups, especially foods containing proteins such as dairy products, eggs, and seafood products. Furthermore, contact with allergenic substances like animal dander and plant pollen can also induce eczema. Moreover, certain specific pathogens colonize on the surface of eczema-affected skin, leading to repeated outbreaks. These factors make the treatment of eczema less than ideal, so it is essential to understand the specific reasons behind the baby's eczema to tailor the treatment effectively.