Eczema--practical management issues

Eczema is a common, and at times challenging, condition to manage. It often involves an irritable child, concerned parents and numerous return visits. A variety of mainstream and alternative treatments can confuse both the clinician and patient.

This article aims to refresh readers by reviewing evidenced based treatment protocols, and exploring some of the new and evolving treatments in eczema.

Managing eczema is a multifocal task involving a variety of medicinal and practical approaches. Education of parents and carers is critical. Having a clear plan that can be adapted to each patient's needs is helpful for all involved, with management focussing on control rather than cure. Simple emollients and preventive measures are used to reduce heat, dryness and prickling of the skin. Topical corticosteroids remain the gold standard in the treatment of the inflammation of eczema. However, combining topical steroids with the new calcineurin inhibitors, wet dressings and behavioural modification should increase the time interval between exacerbations.