Eczema

 Eczema, also called dermatitis, is essentially a non-contagious, recurring, long-term inflammation of the skin accompanied by redness, vesicles, scales and itching. It can begin early in life and is also seen in infants. People with the condition suffer periods commonly known as an "eczema flare-ups", during which symptoms worsen. These flare-ups, of varying length, are interspersed with periods of remission.

Risk factors 

 People with allergies or close relatives with allergies (allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergies, certain types of hives) are at greater risk of developing atopic eczema. If a parent is a sufferer, the risk of children having the condition is also increased. 50% to 70% of patients with atopic dermatitis have a first-degree relative (mother, father or sibling) with the condition. People living in a dry climate or in an urban area are at a higher risk of suffering from atopic eczema.

Prevalence 

 The prevalence of eczema has been estimated at 15-20% in childhood. Eczema seems to be more prevalent in industrialized areas. The age of onset is during the first year of life for 60% of patients and rarely before the age of two months. 30% of patients present eczema between the ages of 1 and 5 and about 10% between the ages of 6 and 20. One-third continues to have eczema as an adult.

Treatments 

 The presently known treatment of atopic dermatitis is symptomatic. The intention is not to eradicate the disease permanently, but to treat the symptoms during flare-ups and prevent recurrences. Allergic forms of eczema are treated with antihistamines and corticosteroids. This condition is treated with topical medications , both corticosteroid and non-cortisteroid treatments, which reduce the itching and inflammation.

Involvement of probiotics

 Some probiotics canhelp to reduce the risk of eczema as they have a beneficial effect on the intestinal mucosa. In fact, they modulate the secretion of antibodies associated with eczema. Some studies have demonstrated their efficacy in reducing the incidence of eczema in children and adults. Various other studies are still needed and several are currently underway.

References

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