Disease Process: Eczema is a non-contagious group of inflammatory skin condition that causes itchy, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, or blisters, and sometimes skin infections (National Eczema Association, 2023). There are seven main types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, neurodermatitis, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis (National Eczema Association, 2023).
Pathophysiology (atopic dermatitis): Increase in allergen specific IgE levels in blood serum when the immune system begins to move towards Th2 cytokines (Ring et al., 2012). Genetics play role with deficiency in skin barrier functions such as abnormal lipid metabolism and/or epidermal structural protein mutations from a lack of filaggrin protein (Ring et al., 2012). The imbalance of Th2 and Th1 cytokines results in IgE mediated hypersensitivity (Booth et al., 2017). Risk factors and briefly state why it is a risk: 1.
Overactive Immune System that causes the skin’s natural barrier to become dry and itchy
2.
Genetics that include a protein called “filaggrin,” which helps to maintain moisture in the skin. If the body is deficient in this protein, it can trigger eczema flare ups
3.
Environment if there is a family history of eczema, common household items can act as irritants and trigger allergic reactions and eczema flare-ups. Temperature could also be a trigger. 4.
Stress although unknown, have been reported to cause eczema flare-ups (National Eczema Association, 2023).
Major signs and symptom and briefly state how they are occurring: (image if you can find one) -
Red, dry patchy skin
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Rashes that may sometimes ooze clear fluids, or bleed
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Thickening and hardening of the skin
(NIH, 2022).
