Nummular Dermatitis Nummular Eczema

Nummular Dermatitis

I. Definition:

Nummular eczematous dermatitis (nummular eczema or nummular dermatitis) is a name given to a stubborn, sometimes itchy rash that forms coin-shaped patches on the skin. The lesions as they get older may clear in the center resembling ring worm or fungus. The condition tends to be chronic, with periods of quiescence and exacerbation.

II. Cause:

The cause is unknown. It is more common in the winter.
Nummular eczema is frequently associated with dry skin.
Wool, soaps and frequent bathing (more than once a day) often worsen the condition.
People with eczema have skin that is dry and easily irritated by soap, detergents, and rough wool clothing. Clothes washed or dried with liquid or sheet fabric softeners such as Cling, may also irritate the skin. Hot and cold weather often aggravates eczema. Certain allergies may worsen eczema, but they don't cause it.

III. Treatment

There is no cure. However, there are effective ways of controlling it such as ClearSkin-E Cream and similar natural treatments.
Vaseline, tar and cortisone compounds applied to the skin are the best medicines for controlling nummular eczema. Most cortisone salves can be used safely for years. When large areas of the body are treated with strong cortisone preparations, periodic medical check ups are necessary. Strong cortisones shouldn't be applied to the face, armpits, groin, or rectal area.
When using cortisone creams or lotion always remember to use a little and massage it in well.
For stubborn nummular eczema, salves containing coal tar can be helpful. However, it smells and stains the clothing.
Keep the skin lubricated. Use a bath oil or Aveeno powder in the tub. Do not take more than one bath or shower a day. Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water dries out the skin. When toweling dry don't rub. Blot the skin so there is still some water left on the skin. Then apply a moisturizer to all of the skin such as Vaseline, Lubriderm, or Moisturel.
Soap irritates and dries the skin, so keep it away from your eczema. When bathing limit the use of soap to your face, armpits, genital area, and feet. Use Cetaphil soap, Oil of Olay, Dove or Basis. If hands are washed frequently, dry carefully then apply a little Vaseline.
Avoid contact with wool or rough clothing. Cotton clothes, (100%) are best.
When laundering the clothes, use no fabric softener, Cling or dryer sheets. Wash the clothes using dye free, fragrance free detergents or Ivory Snow.
Avoid make-ups, perfumes, etc. that may cause itching or irritation.
It is possible to find a treatment routine that lets you control your nummular eczema. Usually with cortisone creams or ointments and a lot of Vaseline.
If your nummular eczema worsens and you can't control it, return to the office so we can adjust your medications.

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