Eczema is a group of chronic skin disorders that affect the hands,
scalp, face, back of the neck, and skin creases of the elbows and knees. It can
run in families; however, it may occur for no known reason or be caused by an
allergic reaction to certain foods, clothing, lotions, soaps, plants, or
topical medications.
Signs and symptoms of eczema may include itching, small blisters
with oozing, and thickened and scaly skin.
Eczema can be treated with preventive measures and medications. The
goals of treatment are to ease symptoms, especially itching, and to control the
rash.
Atopic dermatitis is one type of eczema.
