What is Discoid Eczema: Dermatitis with Round Circles, Patches and Irritation



Posted: Friday, June 11, 2010

by Rosie Wallace
http://www.itchyskinrash.net

There are many forms of skin conditions that can cause irritation. There is a particular type of skin condition called Discoid eczema. This skin problem mostly occurs with adults and is shaped like a coin and the skin is reddish in color. The rashes are generally located on the torso or lower legs. In appearance, the rash can be mistaken for ringworm and is very itchy. It can also secrete clear fluids especially if it has gotten a bacterial infection.

Even though this particular skin inflammation tends to erupt on the lower legs, it can affect any area of your body. The other areas where it is commonly found are the back, bottom, and arms. The rash will eventually crust over, become scaly and is always very itchy. Scaly patches can appear on the lower legs, wrists, head or forearms due to scratching the intense itch, which in turn causes it to become more irritated. The initial onset of this skin problem can be due to a minor insect bite or a burn on the skin.

This skin rash is often called varicose eczema when the rash appears down the legs, around the veins. This rash will look like patches that can last for months. The patches range in size up to several centimeters span, however the skin between the patches may appear normal, but still be irritated and dry. The symptoms of this rash can be very itchy or have no extreme irritation at all.

Once these circular patches clear up, they will still leave their mark for awhile. This can last for several weeks to a couple months. These marks can either be lighter or dark than your normal pigment. It is important to always protect your skin as this form of rash tends to occur as a result of skin damage. Try to keep your affect skin away from chemicals like various detergents. Even excess water usage can aggravate your skin.

Discoid eczema is not due to hereditary or genetics but tends to affect middle aged to elderly men. It is not associated with other illnesses like asthma and is not a result of food allergy or poisoning. This rash cannot be passed to others but you need to be aware of any bacterial infection that may occur from scratching and tearing the skin.

Learn more about ways to clear your skin and see baby eczema images and read about ways to control and get rid of eczema .

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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by Jennifer Stewart
 1 year 350 days ago.
153 fans.
Is discoid eczema what was once known as ringworm? Or was that really a worm? I used to be terrified as a child that I'd somehow end up with worms burrowing about in my face...
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