Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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What is eczema?

Eczema is a red, extremely itchy rash. The rash often starts on the cheeks at 2 to 6 months of age. The rash is mostly on inner surfaces of elbows, wrists, and knees.

Eczema is a type of sensitive, dry skin that runs in families. Eczema is triggered by contact with irritating substances (for example, soap or chlorine). In 30% of infants with eczema, flare-ups occur within 2 hours of eating certain foods (such as cow's milk, eggs, or peanut butter).

How can I take care of my child?

• Steroid creams. Steroid cream treats the itch of eczema. Use the steroid cream prescribed by your child's physician. When the rash quiets down, use it at least once a day for 2 weeks. After that, use it immediately on any spot that itches.
• Bathing and hydrating the skin. Hydration prevents flare-ups. Soaking in a bath once a day for 10 minutes will also help the itching. Soaps make eczema worse. Young children usually do not need soap. Teenagers need soap to wash under the arms, the genital area, and the feet.
• Lubricating cream. After the bath, apply a cream for dry skin.

How can I prevent eczema?

Cotton clothes should be worn as much as possible. Avoid triggers that cause eczema to flare up, such as sweating, excessive cold, dry air (use a humidifier), chlorine, harsh chemicals, and soaps. Never use bubble bath.

Call your child's doctor right away if:

• The rash looks infected and your child has a fever.
• The rash flares up after contact with fever blisters.

Call your child's doctor during office hours if:

• The rash becomes raw and open in several places.
• The rash looks infected (red streaks, pus, yellow scabs).
• The rash hasn't improved after 7 days of this treatment.
• You have other concerns or questions.