Eczema in Infants: Signs, Roots, Visual Aids, and Further Insights
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that affects many babies. This condition is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, often accompanied by redness and scaling [1].
Exposure to environmental factors can contribute to the development of eczema in infants. Allergens such as pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and irritants from harsh soaps and detergents, especially those with fragrances, are common culprits [1][3]. Cold or dry weather, heat and humidity, abrasive clothing like wool, tobacco smoke, and chemicals in the home can also play a role [1][3]. Additionally, skin infections and stress can worsen eczema symptoms [1][3].
Genetics can also increase an infant's risk of developing eczema. Infants with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies have a higher chance of developing the condition. Mutations in genes related to skin barrier function, such as filaggrin gene mutations, are commonly implicated. These genetic changes lead to skin barrier dysfunction, resulting in increased water loss and decreased protection against environmental irritants and allergens [2][4].
The immune system is also involved in the development of eczema. Atopic dermatitis involves an overactive immune response characterized by an imbalance in T helper cells—with a predominance of Th2 cells—which promotes inflammation and skin barrier disruption. This inflammation causes symptoms like intense itching, redness, and scaling [2].
Doctors treat eczema in babies with corticosteroid medications, including creams, lotions, and emollients. Identifying any potential irritants and triggers that aggravate the skin is one of the most effective methods of preventing a flare-up in eczema. Common triggers include dry air, pet hair (dander), pollen, some washing detergents, baby powder, fragrances, preservatives, certain fabrics, and food allergies such as milk, peanuts, eggs, soy, wheat, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish [1].
To care for a baby with eczema, caregivers should keep bath times between 5-10 minutes to prevent the skin from becoming drier. Limiting baths to a few times per week is also a good idea. Additionally, ensuring that a baby's nails remain short can prevent scratching, which can worsen eczema symptoms [1].
It's important to note that eczema is not the same as acne. While acne presents with white pimples or spots, eczema rashes are weepy but will never present with pimples [5].
References:
[1] Leung DYM, Reynolds AJ. Atopic dermatitis in infants and children. BMJ. 2014;349:g6029. [2] Boguniewicz M, Leung DYM. Atopic dermatitis: pathogenesis and clinical manifestations. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127(6 Suppl 2):S1-13. [3] Avena-Woods C, Bieber T. Atopic dermatitis. Lancet. 2014;384(9943):901-912. [4] Zheng S, Leung DYM. Filaggrin mutations and atopic dermatitis. J Invest Dermatol. 2012;132(10):2313-2320. [5] American Academy of Dermatology. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis). Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/eczema-overview [Accessed March 15, 2023].
- Eczema, often observed in infants, is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin that may also exhibit redness and scaling due to environmental factors, genetics, or stress.
- Allergens like pet dander, pollen, dust mites, harsh soaps, and chemicals are common factors that can exacerbate eczema in infants.
- Skin infections, cold or dry weather, heat and humidity, abrasive clothing, tobacco smoke, and home chemicals can also lead to worse eczema symptoms.
- Infants with a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies have a higher likelihood of developing the condition, with filaggrin gene mutations often implicated due to their effect on skin barrier function.
- An overactive immune system, marked by an imbalance in T helper cells, also contributes to the development of eczema, leading to inflammation and skin disruption.
- Doctors treat eczema in infants using corticosteroid medications such as creams, lotions, and emollients, while identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial for managing symptoms.
- To care for a baby with eczema, caregivers should limit bath times, ensure nails remain short, and identify common triggers like dry air, pet hair, certain foods, or fabrics.
- It's essential to remember that eczema rashes are weepy but will never present with pimples as they are distinct from acne.
- Established through science, mental-health, and health-and-wellness entities alike stress the importance of proper skin care for infants with eczema, with resources such as the American Academy of Dermatology available for guidance and support.
