What is the nummular dermatitis?

Nummular dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that manifests itself as small, round, itchy patches. A person may have only one spot of affected skin or several lesions on the hands, arms, legs or elsewhere on the body. The condition is most often observed in men over 70 years of age, but nummular dermatitis may occur at any age. Doctors do not fully understand why this happens, but several risk factors such as dry skin and chemical exposure have been identified. In most cases itching and pain can be released with over -the -counter local creams and moisturizing lotions. The center of the pain is usually lighter than the edges, creating a ring appearance. The skin tends to burst and be scaly around the perimeter of the lesion. Chronic itching and burning feelings are common with nummular dermatitis, but doctors warn against scratches to avoid skin breaking. If the patch is infected, the blister can create, which after a few days leaks yellow pus and crusts.

The causes of nummular dermatitis are not known, but many different potential triggers can contribute to outbreaks. Many people who gain a condition already have chronically dry skin, allergies and family history of skin problems. Some cases seem to be caused by exposure to industrial chemicals or some metals, including cobalt and nickel. Any condition that dries and irritates the skin may increase the likelihood of episodes, such as very cold and dry weather, hands soaps and firmly adjacent clothes.

The physician can usually diagnose nummular dermatitis by simply inspection of the affected skin stains. It may decide to collect a tissue sample for testing infections, cancer or other possible causes of irritation. After the diagnosis, the doctor may have local treatment that soothes pain and itching. Large lesions can be tied to protect and reduce the likelihood of bacterial infections. Patients are aboutBecually instructed to maintain the skin hydrated with skin skin medicines to promote faster healing.

There is no cure for nummular dermatitis and it is likely that a person who is experiencing a focus will have recurrent skin problems. Doctors usually recommend that patients try to take preventive measures against future episodes. The aim of prevention is to keep the skin moistened. The use of cream and avoiding direct exposure to the skin of wind, chemicals and irritating soaps reduces the chances of returning nummular dermatitis.