Healthwise

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Eczema (atopic dermatitis)

Baby with eczema, showing rash on elbows, cheeks, and knees.

Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes intense itching. It causes dry skin and a raised rash. Sometimes the rash develops blisters and crusts.

In lighter skin, the rash may look pink or red. In darker skin, the rash may be hard to see or it may look dark brown, gray, or purple. Or there may be patches of lighter skin.

Eczema can be a long-lasting (chronic) skin problem that requires more than one treatment. In infants, it usually affects the cheeks, the front of the knees, and the back of the elbows.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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