Definition
Eczema of the hollow of the knee is an inflammatory, non-infectious disease that is limited to the upper layer of skin, the so-called epidermis. A phased course is typical of eczema of the popliteal fossa. In the acute situation, the skin of the knee appears reddened by the inflammatory processes and itching sets in. Since it is not an infectious process, eczema of the knee is not contagious.
Diagnosis
In most cases, the diagnosis is a gaze diagnosis, which the dermatologist can make. Nevertheless, it is important to take a closer look at the patient’s medical history in order to get information about the type of eczema of the popliteal fossa present. It is important to know when the symptoms first appeared and whether they can be related to anything. It is also important to find out whether these skin symptoms are also present in other parts of the body. In order to prove or exclude an allergic connection, an allergy test can be carried out in the form of a so-called prick test.
Symptoms of eczema in the hollow of the knee
Eczema that manifests itself in the hollow of the knee always shows an acute process at the beginning, which in the course of time can turn into a chronic event. In the acute situation, the affected knee is clearly swollen and reddened and, due to the dry and extremely sensitive skin, an itching develops, which is further intensified by additional irritation, such as scratching the affected skin. The storage of water, which is part of the inflammatory process, can lead to a significant increase in the circumference of the knee, which can result in an increasing restriction of movement of the leg.
In the further course of the disease, the irritation of the skin can cause blisters to develop, which, when they open, sometimes also secrete a weeping substance. When these dry out, crusts form on the affected skin of the hollow of the knee. The transition from an acute inflammatory reaction to a chronic course can be recognized by the fact that the eczema repeatedly manifests itself in the hollow of the knee or never heals completely.
In the course of the disease, the skin structure changes and becomes harder and coarser due to the constant irritation. As a late consequence, scar-like changes can occur in the corresponding areas. Most eczema affecting the hollow of the knee is atopic eczema.
The treatment depends on the form of the eczema. If certain triggering factors for the development of eczema can be identified, such as contact with certain creams or detergents, these should be strictly avoided. In the case of weeping blisters, creams or ointments with a high water content should be used to prevent possible dehydration of the affected skin areas.
If the skin of the hollow of the knee is very dry and brittle, oily ointments can be used. In cases of acute inflammation and massive swelling of the knee, preparations containing cortisone as an anti-inflammatory agent are often used. In order to relieve the severe itching, antihistamines are used.
