Types of Eczema

"Eczema" is a group of conditions that cause itchy, inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis is the most common, but other types are worth knowing because the treatment differs.

Main types

• Atopic dermatitis. The common long-term form, often starting in childhood and linked with asthma and hay fever.
• Contact dermatitis. Skin reacts to something it touches. It may be irritant (soap, detergents, cleaning products, water) or allergic (nickel in jewellery, fragrances, rubber, some creams and herbal applications).
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis. Greasy, flaky patches on the scalp, face and chest. Dandruff is a mild form.
• Dyshidrotic eczema. Small, itchy blisters on the palms, fingers and soles.
• Nummular eczema. Round, coin-shaped patches, often on the legs.
• Stasis dermatitis. Eczema on the lower legs linked with poor leg circulation and swelling.
• Neurodermatitis (lichen simplex). Thick patches from repeated scratching of one area.

Why the type matters

Contact eczema needs the trigger found and avoided, and seborrhoeic dermatitis responds to different treatment from atopic eczema. A doctor may suggest a patch test if allergy is suspected.

The classical view. Ayurveda describes eczema-like skin disease under the kshudra kushtha group, with names such as vicharchika (weeping, itchy), pama (small itchy eruptions), kitibha (dry, thickened) and ekakushtha (scaly). These names loosely match features of modern types but are not exact equivalents. They are an interpretive framework and not a diagnosis.

A correct diagnosis saves time and avoids long use of the wrong cream.