ECZEMA
Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Atopic dermatitis, or what is known as eczema, is one of the most common skin diseases around the world. It is considered one of the diseases that many people suffer from permanently, and most treatments seek to eliminate the cause more than treating the underlying cause, as it is considered an autoimmune disease.
It is an autoimmune skin disease, where eczema, or what is called atopic dermatitis, can include a large number of types and degrees, as it is possible to affect certain areas and not others, but determining the underlying cause varies from one person to another depending on the allergen.
Types of atopic dermatitis (eczema)
There are many types of atopic dermatitis (eczema), and they differ in location and even in cause. This is what made it classified into a number of different types depending on the affected area and the type of trigger for this injury. We work at Dr. Dima Ahmad’s clinic to determine the type of injury in proportion to the condition. Clinical condition, including:
- Contact dermatitis.
- Dyshidrosis.
- Neurodermatitis.
- Seborrheic eczema.
- Seborrheic dermatitis.
It is possible to have more than one type of eczema at the same time.
Treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Atopic dermatitis requires constant and continuous care in terms of staying away from sources of irritation, in addition to constant hydration, which is the cornerstone of eczema treatment. Drug treatment can also be used when the condition needs it.
Medications used to treat atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Creams or ointments containing calcineurin inhibitors may be a good option for those over the age of 2. Some examples include tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel), but you must avoid exposure when using these products.
It is also possible to use pills that help control the symptoms of severe eczema. Some treatment options may include cyclosporine, methotrexate, prednisone, mycophenolate, and azathioprine. These pills are considered effective but cannot be used in the long term due to possible serious side effects.
The new therapeutic options that help modify the immune response are the injectable biological drugs (monoclonal antibodies) dupilumab (Dupixent) and tralokinumab, which are used in moderate to severe cases.
Question & Answer
Dr. Dima Ahmad reviews the various symptoms that may appear in the case of atopic dermatitis, where itching, dry skin, and rashes are among the most prominent symptoms. Dr. Dima Ahmad also examines the areas and visually identifies them to confirm the condition before taking appropriate treatment steps.
- Dry weather (low humidity).
- Some types of fabrics.
- Some cosmetics.
- Smoke and pollutants.
- Soap and detergents.
- Stress or mental health.
Steroids are considered one of the most important treatments used in treating atopic dermatitis, but steroids are not used permanently due to the body forming a resistance to them.