What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)
- Asteatotic Dermatitis
- Eczema Craquele
- Winter Itch
What is Asteatotic Eczema? (Definition/Background Information)
- Asteatotic Eczema is a common, itchy skin condition that affects older individuals. It is common during winters, when the skin is dry. Hence, the condition is also known as Winter Eczema or Winter Itch
- Apart from the cold weather, the condition may be influenced by hot showers, heated homes with low humidity, living in high altitudes, and certain health conditions such as zinc deficiency, hypothyroidism, and even cancer
- Regular itching of the skin can cause associated bleeding and skin ulceration. Often, large areas of skin may be affected. Asteatotic Eczema can result in superimposed skin infections that require treatment
- Asteatotic Eczema may be treated using topical applications such as moisturizing lotions and petroleum jelly creams. The prognosis of the condition is generally excellent, though there is a tendency of the condition to recur
- The risk for Asteatotic Eczema may be reduced by minimizing exposure to cold and dry weather, using proper heating and cooling system at homes, and avoiding hot baths
Who gets Asteatotic Eczema? (Age and Sex Distribution)
- Asteatotic Eczema is generally seen in elderly adults; although, it can affect a wider age group of individuals
- Both men and women are affected by this condition
- No racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is observed. However, the condition is mostly seen in regions with cold climates
What are the Risk Factors for Asteatotic Eczema? (Predisposing Factors)
The risk for Asteatotic Eczema may include any of the following factors:
- Frequent hot baths or hot showers
- Individuals in heated homes with low humidity, especially during winters
- Use of dehumidifiers at homes creating dryness
- Family history of the skin condition
- Living in high altitudes
- Zinc deficiency
- Hypothyroidism
- Use of diuretics
- Sometimes, underlying conditions such as lymphoma, breast cancer, and lung cancer can increase the risk for Asteatotic Eczema
It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.
Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.
What are the Causes of Asteatotic Eczema? (Etiology)
- The cause and development of Asteatotic Eczema is presently unknown
- Researchers believe that it is most likely due to a combination of dehydration of skin and abnormal immune reaction
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Asteatotic Eczema?
The signs and symptoms of Asteatotic Eczema may include:
- Itching of skin; large areas of skin may be involved
- Dry skin aggravates the condition
- Mostly the arms and legs are affected
- Itching is common during the winter months
- Scratching may lead to bleeding of skin
How is Asteatotic Eczema Diagnosed?
A diagnosis of Asteatotic Eczema would include the following tests and exams:
- A complete evaluation of one’s medical history
- A thorough physical examination of the patient to observe the signs and symptoms with respect to the condition
- Tests to rule out infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal infections)
- Potassium hydroxide (KOH) test: The KOH prep involves microscopic observation of skin scrapings for structures belonging to fungi
- Skin biopsy: A biopsy of the lesion is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
What are the possible Complications of Asteatotic Eczema?
Asteatotic Eczema could lead to the following complications namely:
- Bacterial and fungal infection: Continuous itching can lead to bleeding and ulceration, providing a suitable environment for bacteria and fungi to grow and thrive
- Chronic conditions may cause emotional stress
How is Asteatotic Eczema Treated?
Asteatotic Eczema may be treated through the following measures:
- Keeping the skin moist is the first step towards treating the condition. This may involve the use of suitable moisturizing lotions, petroleum jelly creams, etc.
- Topical steroid creams may be used for severe cases
- Application of anti-itch, over-the-counter creams can provide relief from pain and itching sensation
- Oral medications, such as antihistamines, to provide relief from severe itching sensation
A few self-care tips and home remedies may include:
- Avoid scratching the affected area; keep fingernails trimmed
- A cool bath with moisturizing bath oils may help soothe the skin
- Adequate humidification of one’s home
- Decreasing the temperature of water during bathing/showering
How can Asteatotic Eczema be Prevented?
The following measures may be used to lower the risk of Asteatotic Eczema or Asteatotic Dermatitis or its aggravation:
- A protective cream or moisturizer may be applied over the skin for protection of the topmost layer
- Avoid very hot showers/baths
- During winters, maintain proper levels of humidity at homes through proper setting of the heating/cooling system
- Avoid exposure to cold-dry weather, especially if you are prone to Asteatotic Eczema
What is the Prognosis of Asteatotic Eczema? (Outcomes/Resolutions)
- Asteatotic Eczema usually resolves on providing sufficient hydration to the skin, generally without any complications
- Some cases with severe signs and symptoms may require suitable medical attention
- However, the condition can be recurrent and chronically present during winters
Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Asteatotic Eczema:
There is no evidence to prove that dietary factors have an influence on Asteatotic Eczema.
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