How is it diagnosed?

An experienced dermatologist can diagnose eczema by clinical examination and usually no other investigations are necessary. If the eczema looks unusual, a skin biopsy may be recommended. Skin swabs and blood tests may also be part of the investigation. If allergy is suspected, patch testing can be performed to identify the allergen.

How is it treated?

A personalised treatment regime is often needed as the treatment depends on the severity, areas of the skin involved and presence of infection. Patient education is extremely important. Appropriate topical treatments including steroids and other anti inflammatory creams and emollients +/- antibiotics are often sufficient to control eczema but occasionally steroid tablets or other medication may be required.