Dermatitis: nummular eczema symptoms and treatment
Written by:The specialist in dermatology, the Dra. Ángela Hernández, explains what is and the treatment of nummular eczema.
Definition
Dermatitis or nummular eczema consists of small patches of scaly lesions the size of a coin, between 2 and 5 cm. The term 'numular' means "extended and round like a coin".
Symptoms and diagnosis
Normally, this type of eczema is formed in large , pruritic, crusty and exudative plaques, that is, itchy irritations.. Unlike what happens in atopic dermatitis, it is typical of children of school age. It affects both girls and boys, although it tends to develop more often in the male sex. It does not appear in the facial area or is accompanied by dry skin and usually manifests itself in greater situations in situations of sudden changes in temperature, between cold and heat. However, during the generalization of the picture, popliteal flexures (behind the knees) and antecubital flexures (in front of the elbows) may be affected.. This situation makes the diagnosis difficult to differentiate it from atopic dermatitis. In complicated cases, a skin biopsy may be required to rule out other conditions.
Causes and treatment
The cause of nummular eczema is unknown. Hereditary factors and bacterial infections have been suggested among the reasons for its occurrence. Clinically it occurs intermittently, with periods of improvement and worsening. The treatment is often frustrating, since it does not respond well to steroid treatment and patients suffer a significant deterioration in the quality of life due to itching, the impact on school performance and the loss of sleep.. Fortunately, in many patients the lesions usually disappear after puberty. During outbreaks it is important to maintain good hygiene and follow the therapeutic indications of the dermatologist , who can recommend different antiseptic, antibiotic and topical and / or systemic anti-inflammatory treatments.
