Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Flashcards
What are some common signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis?
-Itching
-Dry
-Cracked
-Sore
What are some trigger factors which can cause atopic dermatitis?
-Irritants
-Allergens
-Skin infections
-Dietary factors
What are the five levels of severity for eczema?
-Clear
-Mild
-Moderate
-Severe
-Infected
How would you diagnose clear eczema?
-Normal skin and no evidence of active eczema
-No impact of quality of life
How would you diagnose mild eczema?
-Areas of dry skin
-Infrequent itching
-Potential small areas of redness
-Little impact on everyday activities
How would you diagnose moderate eczema?
-Dry skin
-Frequent itching
-Redness
-Potential localised skin thickening
-Moderate impact in everyday activities
How would you diagnose severe eczema?
-Widespread areas of dry skin
-Incessant itching
-Redness
-Potential bleeding, oozing, cracking, alteration of pigment
-Severe limitation on everyday activities
How would you diagnose infected eczema?
-Weeping
-Crusted
-Pustules present
-Fever
-Malaise
What should be prescribed for mild eczema?
-Generous amounts of emollients
-Consider prescribing a mild corticosteroid for areas of red skin
For mild eczema, what mild corticosteroid is recommended?
Hydrocortisone 1%
How long should treatment for mild eczema be continued after being controlled?
48 hours
How should emollients be used?
-Frequently and liberally
-Apply in the direction of hair growth
What should be prescribed for moderate eczema?
-Generous amount of emollient
-If the skin is inflamed, prescribe a moderately potent topical corticosteroid to be used on inflamed areas
-If there is severe itching, consider a one-month trial of non-sedating antihistamines
Which moderately potent corticosteroid is recommended for moderate eczema?
Betamethasone Valerate 0.025%
Clobetasone Butyrate 0.05%
What are some examples of non-sedating antihistamines?
Loratadine
Cetrizine
Fexofenadine
