Atopic eczema

Atopic eczema is also based on a genetic predisposition to respond disproportionately to certain endogenous or exogenous factors after initial exposure (exposure). For example, a single exposure to dust can cause the body to react more strongly and very violently to dust. This is followed by itching of the glans, dry, scabby skin, up to redness and crust formation.

These symptoms mainly affect the areas of the extremities close to the joints, i.e. the insides of the arms, the back of the knees and the fingers. Triggering factors can be dust, but also stress, infections, change of season, heat accumulation or food intolerance. The factors are therefore manifold and not always easy to identify.

The so-called prick test and food intolerance tests provide clarification. In addition to the typical skin regions described above where atopic eczema manifests itself, rashes in the pubic region are not uncommon. In both boys and girls, the genitals are frequently affected.

The disease mainly affects children, about 10-15% of all children suffer from it in varying degrees. It usually begins in the 3rd – 6th month of life and usually recedes completely until adulthood. The therapy consists mainly of avoiding the triggering factors.In the case of a food allergy, this is usually still relatively easy, but stress is difficult to influence and is much less easy to combat.

Antihistamines can be used as a support, they suppress the excessive immune reaction of the body. However, many patients complain about sedative (drive-inhibiting) side effects, which makes long-term medication difficult. Phototherapy, i.e. high-dose irradiation with UVA or UVB light, produces good results.

It is often combined with glucocorticoid therapy, as in seborrheic eczema. For regions affected by pubic region, such as the intimate region, creams containing cortisone are also recommended. They can also be applied with the involvement of a limb or glans, and promise good results.

Weeping eczema

In case of weeping eczema, fatty creams should be avoided as they tend to worsen the situation. Wet clothes or cold compresses provide good relief from the feeling of warmth. The latter are particularly suitable for treatment in the genital area. The evaporation of the moist compresses removes heat from the skin, which relieves the discomfort. It is also helpful to let the affected area “dry” in the air.