This image displays extensive atopic dermatitis (eczema); note the skin is dry and scaly, which is typical of atopic dermatitis. In atopic dermatitis, the skin is often dry with elevated hair follicles. This image displays a close-up of brown, scaly, elevated follicles typical of atopic dermatitis (eczema). The inside fold of arms is a common site for the scaly, dry, itchy lesions typical of atopic dermatitis (eczema). This image displays eyelids that appear thick and scaly, typical to atopic dermatitis (eczema). This image displays atopic dermatitis (eczema) in the body folds of the back of the legs coupled with staph bacteria. In atopic dermatitis (eczema), chronic itch and associated rubbing of the skin leads to skin thickening and the increased prominence of normal skin markings, as displayed in this image. This image displays the typical scaly and slightly pink lesions of atopic dermatitis (eczema) in a teenager. This image displays atopic dermatitis (eczema) with thickened skin and small bumps due to chronic rubbing. In adults, atopic dermatitis can frequently involve the neck and cheeks.
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Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)  Information for adults

Picture of Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This image displays extensive atopic dermatitis (eczema); note the skin is dry and scaly, which is typical of atopic dermatitis. Divider line
This image displays extensive atopic dermatitis (eczema); note the skin is dry and scaly, which is typical of atopic dermatitis.
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Treatments Your Provider May Prescribe
Topical or oral (systemic) medications can include:
  • Topical steroid creams or ointments may be prescribed to treat active areas of localized eczema. Low-strength steroids may be used on the face and medium- to high-strength steroids may be used on the trunk and extremities.
  • Care should be taken when using topical steroids in skin folds because of the risk of atrophy or thinning of the skin.
  • Steroid-sparing agents, such as topical tacrolimus or pimecrolimus, may be prescribed for milder disease or for certain areas of involvement, such as the face.
  • Oral antihistamines may be prescribed to decrease itching.
  • If an infection is suspected, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • In patients who have multiple areas of broken skin or a history of bacterial skin infections, dilute bleach baths may be prescribed.
Procedures:
  • For more extensive eczema, forms of light therapy may be recommended.
  • Patients with resistant cases may be treated with oral medications used to suppress the immune system, such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus.
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Last Modified: 31 Aug 2009
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