| Eczema is a congenital skin
condition.
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More specifically, eczema is a common skin condition characterized
by reddening (erythema) and vesicle formation, which may lead to
weeping
and
crusting.
It is endogenous, or "constitutional". This means that outside
agents do not play a primary role. (Contrast this with 'dermititis',
in which case outside agents DO play a primary role.) However in some
contexts the terms 'dermititis' and 'eczema' are used interchangeably
to refer to the symptoms of these skin conditions.
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There are five main types of eczema:
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1.
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Atopic Eczema, which is associated with asthma
and hay-fever.
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2.
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Seborrhoeic Eczema (or Dermititis),
typically affecting the scalp, eyelids, nose, and
lips; associated with the presence of Pityrosporum
yeasts; common among AIDS patients.
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3.
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Discoid (or Nummular) Eczema,
characterized by coin-shaped lesions and only occuring
in adults.
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4.
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Pompholyx, affecting only the hands and feet.
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5.
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Gravitational (or Stasis) Eczema,
associated with poor venous circulation
(sometimes referred to as'Varicose Eczema').
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For more information about other skin problems, see the page about Skin
Conditions and Disorders.
This may interest students of massage, reflexology,
beauty therapies, or other health or clinical courses.
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