What is eczema ?

Eczema or atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by red, dry, scaly, thickened skin. It is typical to have scratch marks due to the intense and itchy rash that develops with the condition. It is very common to see signs of dry, crusty blood over the lesions. The skin sometimes can be weeping and oozing due to a secondary infection (impetigo). The disease varies in frequency and severity among patients. It is not a minor skin disorder. It can be a major handicap with considerable personal, social and financial consequences, not only to the person suffering from it, but also for his or her family and community.