Eczema (atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis) is an itchy inflammatory skin disease most commonly seen in children. It is characterised by itchy, inflamed, dry, scaling and crusted skin. If the condition becomes chronic lichenification (thickening) and hyperpigmentation of the skin are seen.
Eczematous skin has reduced skin barrier function, cutaneous inflammation with increased susceptibility to irritants, and higher rates of Staphylococcus aureus colonisation.
Dr Amy Bird is a clinical psychologist specialising in anxiety disorders. She is also a lecturer in mental health with the Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care at The University of Auckland.
