Dry red spots on baby skin

Managing Eczema in Winter and Year Round: A Parents Guide

Cold, dry outdoor air and indoor heating can rob skin of its natural moisture in the winter. Red, crusty, dry patches can be common on a baby's skin, particularly in winter, and cause concern for parents. Such symptoms can be treated, however, and many babies and children do outgrow the dry, itchy skin of atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema.

We spoke with pediatric dermatologist Katherine Puttgen to learn more. 

Broadly speaking, eczema describes dry, rashy and itchy skin. It is a hereditary and chronic skin disorder most commonly seen in infants or very young children, often beginning in the first year of life and most commonly seen before age 5. Eczema is not contagious.

While many children outgrow eczema, for some it might last into adolescence or adulthood. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that 10-to-20 percent of children in the world have eczema, and it affects up to 20 percent of infants.

What causes eczema in infants and children?

Eczema is brought about by the complex interplay of a genetic predisposition and the child’s environment. Many things – from the climate to possible allergens – can cause eczema to flare. We know that eczema tends to run in the families with a predisposition to other atopic diseases, such as food allergies, asthma and hay fever. Individuals with atopic dermatitis may lack certain proteins in the skin, which leads to greater sensitivity. Parents with eczema are more likely to have children with eczema. However, the exact way it passes from parents to children is still not known. Most children who have eczema will show signs of the condition in the first year of life. It tends to wax and wane in severity.

Different "triggers" can make eczema worse. For infants, these can be irritants such as wool, certain detergents or extreme temperatures, or other immune triggers, such as food allergies and asthma, and even pet dander.

Most kids with the condition have the hardest time in winter, when the air is cold and dry. A small percentage has a harder time in the summer, when it is hot and humid.

The signs of eczema in infants include itchy, dry and scaly skin, redness and swelling of the skin and small bumps that open and weep when scratched. In infants and young children, eczema is usually found on the face, outside of the elbows, and on the knees.

In older children and adults, eczema tends to be on the hands and feet, the arms, and on the back of the knees.Keep in mind that all patches of dry skin are not eczema. The cold, dry outdoor air and indoor heating can dry all babies’ skin in winter, causing dry patches. In children prone to dry skin, so can the sun, air conditioning, and pool and salt water.

We dermatologists usually say “if it’s not itchy, it’s not eczema”; you can’t make a diagnosis of eczema unless there is an itchiness that goes with the rash. Babies with cradle cap, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, can also have a wide-spread rash, which is not eczema in itself. But it is common for cradle cap and eczema to co-exist in the first several months of life.

Eczema symptoms may resemble other skin conditions, so always consult your child’s pediatrician. A diagnosis includes a complete medical history and a physical examination.

Because there is not yet a cure for eczema, our treatment goals are to reduce itching and skin inflammation, and to prevent infection. The best treatment for eczema is a proactive one, using gentle skin care and moisturizers to re-establish the skin barrier.

Infants’ and older children’s skin should be kept well moisturized, and washed with fragrance-free non-soap cleansers. We also recommend a fragrance-free ointment-based moisturizer, with petrolatum as either the only or the first ingredient. In young children and infants, it is reasonable to use an over-the-counter topical hydrocortisone ointment, which is a mild topical steroid, for up to a week.

But if the rash either persists or you find that you need to use the hydrocortisone more than one week out of the month, you should discuss further use with your child’s pediatrician. You can apply the ointment, as prescribed, then a coat of petrolatum-based moisturizer, to help keep in the moisture.

For school-age children, who don’t want to be so greasy, we usually talk about creams. As for infants, though, when their skin gets very dry, we still recommend a petroleum-based ointment as a top coat. In addition to providing the best barrier protection, ointments don’t sting or burn when applied; creams and lotions sometimes can when the skin is inflamed and very dry. Moisturizers should be applied at least two to three times a day; for children in diapers, each diaper change can present an easy opportunity to moisturize the skin. More frequent use of moisturizers results in better control of itching and less frequent need for topical steroids, and it helps to restore the skin’s natural barrier function.

For all ages of kids with eczema, or prone to eczema, baths should be brief (less than 15 minutes) in warm water, to avoid over-drying of the skin. Children should be protected against scratching their skin (little mitts can help infants) and from irritants that contact their skin, such as harsh detergents and certain fabrics (including bedding). To reduce potential skin irritation, babies and children with eczema should wear only cotton or other natural fiber clothing next to the skin, with the exception of wool, of course. And they should be protected against cold (or very hot) environments to help prevent a skin reaction.

If your child’s skin does not respond well to any of these measures or becomes infected, contact your pediatrician, who can diagnose the condition and then prescribe another topical cream or antihistamine.

Without a cure on the near horizon, we here at Johns Hopkins are creating an Eczema Day Treatment Unit to help our patients with moderate to severe eczema keep their symptoms under control and prevent flare-ups. We anticipate that this novel, multidisciplinary program will include experts from Child Life, behavioral psychology, allergy, dermatology and infectious diseases to provide the comprehensive care these children need – care that cannot be provided in an average clinic visit.

A primary goal of the day treatment unit will be education; children and their families will learn techniques such as wet-wrap therapy, to help deeply moisturize the skin. This therapy involves coating the skin with a topical ointment, followed by a greasy ointment like petroleum jelly, then dressing in wet pajamas, followed by dry pajamas, allowing the skin to soak in the moisture.

In partnering with our colleagues in behavioral psychology, we have seen many of our patients with severe eczema improve significantly with help in finding ways to avoid scratching, which inflames their skin condition, and by helping older children talk about the social difficulties in coping with a chronic condition or going to school with a visible disorder. Child Life specialists are an integral part of the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center and their ability to engage children in age-appropriate play and conversation is an important cornerstone of building a successful program. Because food and environmental allergies and skin infections are more frequent in children with moderate to severe eczema, strong partnerships with our experts in pediatric allergy and infectious diseases are key, as well.

At Johns Hopkins, a lot of us in pediatric dermatology, pediatric infectious disease and pediatric allergy and immunology are looking at better ways to prevent or manage eczema. We’re studying the optimal management of bacterial colonization and infection in atopic skin and the role of food allergy in eczema. Our specialties collaborate; each brings a different approach to eczema management. Our goal is to work together to harness the best approaches to better understand eczema and, in doing so, to treat it more effectively.

We go out of our way to provide the comprehensive care our patients with eczema need. On a case-by-case basis, we communicate with one another – whether in allergy, dermatology, psychology or infectious disease – to put together the best course of treatment for each child.We are optimistic that future therapies and approaches to care for those with even severe eczema are going to be greatly improved with more research and that the creation of the Eczema Day Treatment Unit will help us conduct cutting edge research and answer questions we face every day seeing and treating patients.

Yes. We don’t really know why. But we’re on the case to find answers.

Baby Eczema: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

Is there anything yummier than a baby’s soft, smooth skin? Though babies are known for exactly that, picture-perfect skin isn’t always the case, and baby eczema is often to blame.

Babies have extra-sensitive skin, so they’re more prone to rashes than older kids or adults. So the next time you spot some suspicious dry patches on your little one’s body, don’t be alarmed—there’s a good chance it might be baby eczema. But what causes it? Moreover, what does baby eczema look like? We’re sharing all the ins and outs of this common condition, plus some baby eczema treatments that will soon get baby comfortable in their own skin again. Read on to learn what baby eczema is, how to spot it and how to treat it.

In this article:
What is baby eczema?
What does baby eczema look like?
Baby eczema causes
Baby eczema treatment
Can breastfeeding prevent baby eczema?
When to contact a doctor about baby eczema
How long does baby eczema last?

What Is Baby Eczema?

Baby eczema (or atopic dermatitis) appears as red or dry patches of skin, and it’s usually also itchy and rough. For babies who are predisposed to eczema, the first rashes typically appear around 2 to 4 months of age. “Baby eczema often starts as a pink, flaky rash on the cheeks and chin in young babies,” says Anna Bender, MD, a pediatric dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian in New York City. “Older babies who are of crawling age may develop the rash more on the outside of their arms and legs with dry, itchy, irritated skin patches. It may also feel rough to the touch like sandpaper.”

What are the different types of baby eczema?

While the National Eczema Association defines seven different types of the skin condition, baby eczema typically falls into one of four categories: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis or dyshidrotic eczema.

• Atopic dermatitis: The most common type of eczema, atopic dermatitis is a chronic rash that’s usually hereditary, meaning there’s a family history of this condition or other allergies.

• Contact dermatitis: This type of rash is triggered by an outside element. Usually, the condition will go away once baby is no longer exposed to the offending ingredient or allergen. Chemicals, fragrances and soaps are a few examples of substances that can cause this type of rash.

• Seborrheic dermatitis: More widely known as cradle cap, this type of baby eczema is characterized by scaly skin patches on the scalp. It may be caused by genetics, hormones, oil buildup, yeast or a combination of these factors. Unlike most other forms of eczema, it’s not triggered by an allergy.

• Dyshidrotic eczema: This type of eczema appears on the hands and feet. It’s often caused by exposure to certain metals but can also be brought on by sweat and stress. While it can occur in babies and children, it’s more common in adults.

Is eczema common in babies?

The short answer is yes. Up to 20 percent of children in the United States may have some form of eczema, says Bender. According to the National Eczema Association, atopic dermatitis in particular affects 13 percent of children 18 and younger.

What Does Baby Eczema Look Like?

It can be unnerving when you see raw and irritated skin patches on your infant, so being able to identify eczema can reduce your anxiety and get baby treatment faster. So what does baby eczema look like? It’s easy to confuse baby eczema vs. acne since both can appear on the cheeks. But baby acne typically appears earlier in life than eczema. “Baby acne can start soon after birth, while eczema may show the first signs around 2 to 5 months of age,” says Latanya Benjamin, MD, a Florida-based pediatric dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon and Society for Pediatric Dermatology board member. “Additionally, baby acne appears as classic pimples and small red pustules on the face usually with no symptoms. Eczema, on the other hand, affects both the face and body with dry or weepy red patches and is quite itchy.”

While eczema in babies with lighter skin typically looks pink, it may have a purple or gray tone in children with darker skin.

Another clue your little one may have this skin condition? Babies with eczema tend to rub their face with their hands or on their parents’ clothes, or rub their legs and feet or hands together.

Eczema in babies can be divided into three categories:

• Mild baby eczema: Minor cases usually appear as light pink, dry, itchy skin patches, Benjamin says, and can be treated with moisturizers alone.

Image: iStock

• Moderate baby eczema: More noticable cases feature hot spots that are redder. Plus, moderate eczema can affect more of the body surface, Benjamin says; baby may need a cortisone cream or ointment (see below for baby eczema treatments).

Image: iStock

• Severe baby eczema: This is the reddest and flakiest of all three varieties; it’s characterized by red, rough, thickened patches that are extremely itchy and often are crusty or have deep, scabbed cuts or cracks. Severe baby eczema is usually harder to control with over-the-counter products.

Image: Courtesy of Carla Bramley/Instagram

Baby Eczema Causes

Baby eczema is thought to be caused by a combination of (or, more specifically, an interplay of) genetic and environmental factors. “It occurs in families with a history of eczema, asthma and seasonal allergies,” explains Bender. “The immune system of people with eczema is more allergically prone.” What’s more, she says, the skin lacks a strong barrier to the outside world, so it can become easily irritated and dry. As a result, these babies are especially sensitive to certain factors that will incite a breakout. Different babies may be particularly vulnerable to different agents. A few common triggers of eczema in babies include:

• Dry skin (which is why eczema can be common in winter)
• Irritants (such as soaps, household detergents, wool, polyester)
• Heat and sweating
• Infection
• Allergens (pet dander, pollen, dust)
• Saliva (from drooling)

Baby Eczema Treatment

Mild baby eczema may need nothing more than an over-the-counter moisturizer, but more severe cases may require treatment from your pediatrician. “The severity of the eczema dictates what the best treatment should be,” Benjamin says. “But every form of eczema demands proper skin care, including effective moisturization and itch control.” Whatever the case may be, always check in with your pediatrician if baby breaks out. Depending on the severity, your doctor may suggest some or all of these baby eczema treatment options:

• Creams: A gentle moisturizer is your first line of defense for baby eczema. “My son has eczema on his face and legs,” says one mom. “I use Aquaphor ointment on the patches for the flare-ups. Once that clears, we use regular Eucerin lotion after every bath, and his flare-ups have been really minimal.” Apply it all over baby’s body to soothe rough spots and also to improve the skin barrier function.

• Short baths with gentle cleansers: Proper daily skin care is crucial for keeping baby’s eczema-prone skin hydrated. Limit bathtime to 15 minutes and use warm—not hot—water. Choose gentle cleansers without fragrance, and avoid harsh soaps. After the bath, pat—don’t rub—baby’s skin dry within three minutes of taking them out of the water. Finally, apply moisturizer to their whole body.

• Prescription creams and ointments: If the problem doesn’t go away, your pediatrician may suggest a prescription for a low- to medium-strength topical steroid ointment or cream, which can be used once to twice daily to help the inflammation and heal the skin. If you’re prescribed creams or ointments, it’s important to follow up with a doctor as directed to make sure it’s working properly. One mom we spoke to was given a cream that she applied four times a day on her daughter, who had dry, bumpy skin all over her arms, legs, belly and back. “It went away. Then it came back about three weeks after I stopped using the cream, but not nearly as bad as the first time,” she says. “I applied the cream a few more times, and it hasn’t been back since. It’s been about three weeks now.”

• Diluted bleach baths: Inflamed skin is also more prone to infection. According to Benjamin, diluted bleach baths can not only safely manage infected eczema, but also help minimize the use of multiple courses of oral antibiotics for kids with repeated bacterial skin infections. She suggests adding ¼ to ½ cup of regular household bleach to a full-size bathtub with 1 inch of water. Talk to your pediatrician before trying a diluted bleach bath for baby eczema.

Baby eczema natural remedies

Since babies have extra-sensitive skin, it’s natural to want to treat it, well, naturally. But, Bender says, “even natural products have the potential to cause a worsened rash called contact dermatitis, so check with your doctor first before applying something new to baby’s skin.” Furthermore, Bender advises testing a new product before first-time use, and opting for “gentle products with simple ingredient lists.” Here are a couple natural baby eczema remedies that are safe for baby:

• Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer.
• Medical grade honey can help shallow cuts and prevent a local skin infection, Benjamin suggests.
• A home remedy for baby eczema is “wet wrap therapy” (also called wet pajama therapy). Bathe your child, and then apply a thick moisturizer to the slightly damp skin. Dampen a pair of cotton pajamas in warm water, wring them out and slip them on baby, right over the thick layer of moisturizer. After that, put on a second dry pair of cotton pajamas. Keep baby wrapped like this for a few hours or longer.

Can Breastfeeding Prevent Baby Eczema?

Good news for nursing moms: There may be a correlation between breastfeeding and lower incidence of baby eczema. A study found that babies who were exclusively breastfed for the first three months of life were less likely to develop eczema through age 6. While breastfeeding may not completely prevent these rashes, it could potentially reduce some flareups.

When to Contact a Doctor About Baby Eczema

If this is the first time baby is experiencing red or irritated skin, it’s best to contact your doctor to confirm whether it’s baby eczema or another condition. Once you get a diagnosis, you can start taking the appropriate steps and trying some baby eczema treatments.

But if the skin irritation is accompanied by a fever, or the bumps and patches start to ooze, scab or blister, it may be a sign of infection, and you’ll want to consult your child’s doctor right away.

How Long Does Baby Eczema Last?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, while some babies may continue to experience eczema through adulthood, many will outgrow it around age 4.

Baby eczema may also evolve as your little one gets older. According to the National Eczema Association, it might appear on baby’s face in early infanthood but pop up in key areas like the knees, elbows and hands as they get older. As they approach big-kid territory, eczema often hides in knee folds or elbow creases and other sweat-prone spots.

Whether eczema is an acute or perpetual problem for your child, it’s reassuring to know that there are many baby eczema treatments and preventive measures you can take to reduce the symptoms and alleviate the itch.

No one likes to see their baby in discomfort—and the appearance of any rash can be disconcerting. But if you recognize eczema, you can rest assured that it’s common and treatable.

About the experts:

Anna Bender, MD, is a pediatric dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian in New York City. She received her medical degree at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

Latanya Benjamin, MD, FAAD, FAAP, is a Florida-based pediatric dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon and Society for Pediatric Dermatology board member. She earned her medical degree at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Plus, more from The Bump:

Your Ultimate Guide to Baby Rashes

Bummed Out! How to Treat and Prevent Diaper Rash

Cradle Cap 101: How to Spot and Treat It

Atopic dermatitis in a child: causes, symptoms and treatment

Approximately 10-20% of children worldwide have atopic dermatitis, a chronic but non-contagious skin disease that also affects adults. It is also called atopic eczema. Typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis are dry, irritated skin that occasionally flares up with moderate to severe itching, inflammation, and pain. Although there is still no cure for atopic dermatitis, regular and consistent care can help ease symptoms and prolong flare-free periods. nine0003

Signs and symptoms

Atopic dermatitis (or atopic eczema) is an uncomfortable and sometimes tiring long-term skin condition that is very common in children around the world, although predominantly in Western countries. While only 2-5% of adults suffer from this disease, its prevalence in children and infants is 10-20%. The majority of those who get atopic dermatitis (90%) start getting sick before the age of five, and many children later outgrow the disease. nine0003

Atopic dermatitis usually manifests itself in two alternating "phases". In the dormant phase, the skin is very dry, irritated and can flake, and therefore must be moisturized daily. The active phases (or exacerbations, "flashes") are more painful, and at this time it is necessary to apply topical medications to calm the skin and stop itching.

Atopic dermatitis looks and feels different in infants, children and adults:

• Newborns may develop symptoms as early as 2-3 months of age. The rash may appear suddenly, making the skin dry, flaky and itchy. In the acute phase, fluid may ooze from the infected skin. nine0013 • If the disease develops in older children (from two years to puberty), it manifests itself in the form of a rash, dry skin that itches, scaly patches form. As a rule, the skin is uneven, thickened and rough to the touch.
• Atopic dermatitis in adults, which usually begins in childhood, is characterized by very dry, scaly skin and persistent itching.

Most often, atopic dermatitis in infants occurs on the face and scalp (especially on the cheeks) and on the body (elbows and knees). nine0003

In children who continue to be ill from early childhood, the rash often begins on the body - on the crooks of the elbows or knees - it is also quite common to see young patients with atopic skin on the neck, wrists, ankles and / or in the folds between the buttocks and legs .

Atopic dermatitis is made worse by scratching because nails rupture the skin barrier, allowing bacteria to enter the skin where inflammation develops. Babies often rub their skin against bedding or carpeting to relieve itching, and in children of all ages, the itching can become so unbearable that they cannot sleep. Worried about the child, parents may feel helpless, unable to help, and this, in turn, causes psychological stress. But the good news is that effective treatment and quality skin care can greatly alleviate all the troubles. nine0003

If you are not sure about your symptoms, please consult your doctor or dermatologist.

Causes and factors contributing to atopic dermatitis

Dermatologists have identified several factors that cause and exacerbate symptoms, for example:

• Family members have atopic dermatitis, hay fever and/or asthma . A link has been established between atopic dermatitis, hay fever and asthma, and experience shows that if one or both parents suffer from one or all of these diseases, their children will be more prone to developing atopic dermatitis.

• The child lives in a developed country , or in a city where the level of pollutants is higher than usual, or lives in a country with a cold climate. Interestingly, Jamaican children living in London are twice as likely to develop atopic dermatitis as those living in Jamaica. nine0003

• She is a girl . Girls are slightly more likely to develop the disease than boys.

• The mother gave birth to a child at a late age . There is evidence that children born in the later stages of their mother's childbearing years are more prone to atopic dermatitis.

There are a number of reasons why symptoms worsen or flare up after an injury. Patients have a deficiency of natural moisturizing factors (PUF) (such as amino acids) and impaired epidermal lipid metabolism. This explains why their skin is usually dry and its protective function is impaired. nine0003

Problems often arise from the atopic skin cycle. It starts when a child scratches a place that itches and breaks an already fragile skin barrier.

This allows bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus, to multiply and infect the skin. The infection causes inflammation, which again causes itching. The cycle starts again.

Skin care helps break the cycle of atopic skin.

Factors contributing to the development of atopic dermatitis nine0003

Certain foods, drinks, fabrics and materials are considered to be triggers for the manifestations of atopic skin.

These include :

• Materials like wool and nylon, which can be abrasive and cause skin irritation and sweating
• Food allergies, most commonly to dairy, nuts, and shellfish (check with your doctor before removing any foods from your child's diet)
• Allergy to house mites, dust, or pollen
• Detergents and cleaners
• Make-up (although brands targeting sensitive skin should be fine)
• Second-hand smoke (cigarette smoke)

Some additional effects of the disease - such as stress and insomnia - can also worsen symptoms.

Find out more about the factors that affect the skin.

Solutions

It can be very frustrating for parents to see their child suffer, and although there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, regular and consistent care can help prevent the disease from worsening, soothe the skin by reducing pain and itching, reduce emotional stress, prevent infections, and stop thickening of the skin. nine0003

The action plan will most likely include the development of a skin care regimen as well as some lifestyle changes.

For inactive phases, the daily use of emollients is extremely important.

Softeners

Emollients or moisturizers include lotions, creams, face creams, bath and shower oils, all of which are used for the same purpose - to keep the skin hydrated, supple and protected from irritants. Their regular use is fundamental to the care of atopic skin and can prolong the inactive phases of the disease. Children and infants with atopic dermatitis on the face should apply moisturizing facial creams twice a day. nine0003 To continue the active phases of the disease, among other things, the regular use of moisturizers is important.

Main softening ingredients:

• Omega-6 fatty acids from evening primrose and grape seed extract. They soothe and nourish affected skin while restoring the skin's natural protective barrier.
• Licochalcone A (licorice root extract). It is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory action that reduces redness and soothes inflammation. nine0003

Active Care

When flare-ups occur, emollients should be used in conjunction with active care products such as topical anti-itch creams and sprays. These topical creams usually contain corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone.

Eucerin AtopiControl Soothing Atopic Skin Cream has been clinically proven to protect skin and significantly improve the appearance of skin during flare-ups. This remedy helps limit the use of hydrocortisone during flare-ups. Clinical studies show that Eucerin AtopiControl Soothing Atopic Skin Cream has the same cosmetic effect on the face as creams based on 1% hydrocortisone. Eucerin AtopiControl Soothing Cream for Atopic Skin is not a pharmaceutical product and is not a substitute for it. nine0003

Additional advice for parents of children with atopic dermatitis on the face

• Use lukewarm water for washing, not hot water.
• Pat leather almost dry and apply emollient immediately.
• Apply softener twice a day.
• Cut children's nails short and smooth so that the child cannot scratch or pierce the skin.
• Wear cotton gloves at night to prevent your child from scratching his face while sleeping. nine0013 • Keep the room temperature cool and the humidity low.
• It is sometimes helpful to give a child a doll that can be scratched, as this may reduce the need to scratch their own skin.

Plaques on the skin - causes, what diseases it occurs in, diagnosis and methods of treatment nine0002 Fungus

Allergy

Psoriasis

Keratoma

Mycosis

Nevus

Melanoma

Plaques on the skin: the causes of occurrence, in what diseases they occur, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

Definition

A plaque is a pathological element with clear edges that rises above the skin surface or merges with it, more than 5 mm in size.

In dermatology, many types of plaques are distinguished - about 70 diseases occur with the formation of these elements, which makes the plaque one of the most common rashes. nine0003

Plaque varieties

The shape of the plaques are round, oval and irregular in shape. Over time, the shape, surface and appearance of this element may change.

Due to the occurrence of plaques, they can be both a manifestation of skin diseases and a symptom of diseases of internal organs and systems (autoimmune reactions, liver diseases, oncological processes, allergic reactions).

Plaques are dry, smooth, red, brown, gray-white, etc.

Possible causes of plaques

Dry plaques on the skin in adults may be a manifestation of the following diseases:

1. Fungal infection of the skin, accompanied by plaques with severe itching.
2. Allergic reactions are characterized by the appearance on the skin of smooth dry plaques, pink spots, blisters, which are very itchy and cause severe discomfort. They can develop both when the skin comes into contact with the allergen, and when it gets on the mucous membranes (for example, with urticaria, hay fever, food and contact allergies). nine0122
3. Psoriasis is a chronic non-infectious skin disease in which scaly dry plaques form on the elbows, knees, scalp, prone to fusion and accompanied by mild itching.

4. Dry plaques form on the skin if it is exposed to stress for a long time with the loss of its protective functions.
5. Diseases of the digestive tract, accompanied by malabsorption syndrome (impaired absorption of vitamins and trace elements in the small intestine), chronic diseases of the liver and other organs, in which substances that are not normally present in the dermis accumulate, also lead to the appearance of dry plaques. nine0122
6. Solar keratoma is a precancerous condition, which is characterized by the presence of many light grayish plaques on the skin.

The appearance of red plaques on the skin indicates their good blood supply. Possible causes of this condition may be the following nosologies:

1. Drug toxidermia is an allergic reaction accompanied by the appearance of elements in the form of plaques on the skin. In severe cases, Lyell's syndrome or Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, may develop. nine0122

2. Dühring's dermatitis (herpetiformis) is a chronic skin disease without established etiology, which is characterized by recurrent appearance of a rash of various morphologies on the skin, accompanied by severe skin itching and burning.
3. Mycosis fungoides is a primary T-cell lymphoma of the skin, a malignant lymphoid lesion, primarily of the skin. Itchy red plaques appear on the skin, resembling eczema. In the initial stages, they respond well to treatment with hormonal ointments, but the disease itself requires more complex therapy. nine0122

4. In children, the appearance of red spots and plaques on the skin is most often associated with an allergic reaction to food.

Brown plaques occur when melanin is deposited in the affected area of ​​the dermis, which causes a brown (dark) color. Possible causes may be the following diseases:

1. Becker's nevus - an anomaly in the development of the dermis, when dark plaques with an uneven surface appear on the skin, on which hair can begin to grow over time. nine0122
2. Pigmentary nevus - "birthmark", may rise above the skin, has a brown or dark color.
3. Melanoma is the most malignant skin tumor characterized by rapid metastasis. It develops mainly from nevi and moles. If the nature of the surface, the boundaries of the mole change, its size increases, bleeding occurs, you should immediately contact a dermatologist or oncologist to exclude the development of melanoma.
nine0127 Basal cell skin cancer is more often localized on the head, face, neck, does not metastasize, is characterized by slow growth.
4. Senile keratoma occurs in the elderly, most likely due to a lack of vitamins, an abundance of animal fats consumed, skin sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation due to a violation of its protective functions. Typical localization - face, neck, open areas of the body.
5. Seborrheic keratoma is a yellowish plaque on the skin that, over time, transforms into a dark brown growth that tends to peel off, itch severely, crack, bleed, and can serve as an entrance gate for infection. nine0122

Which doctors to contact

With the formation of plaques on the skin, it is necessary to contact a dermatologist to determine the causes of the appearance of this element of the rash.

Diagnosis and examination for plaques

For the diagnosis of fungal skin lesions, scraping from the affected area is used for subsequent microscopic examination.

The development of an allergic reaction requires seeking medical help to identify the allergen, prescribing antihistamines, and sometimes hormonal drugs. In clinical cases of allergy, along with skin tests, analyzes are performed using various sets of common allergens and triggers: a panel for respiratory allergens, for food allergens, and for a combination of both. nine0013

Respiratory Panel

Synonyms: Comprehensive Respiratory Allergen Test Panel; Respiratory allergens panel, Allergen respiratory profile, Allergy testing. Brief description of the study "Panel respira...

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5 515 RUB nine0003

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Food Panel, IgE

Food Allergen Panel: hazelnut, peanut, Walnut, almond, cow's milk, egg white, egg . ..

Up to 5 working days

Available with home visit

5 515 RUB

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Food and Respiratory Panel

Panel different allergens: A mixture of grass allergens: fragrant spikelet; perennial rye; timothy; rye cultivated; Woolly buckthorn (GP3) IgE ... nine0003

Up to 5 business days

Available with home visit

5 515 RUB

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In case of psoriasis, a visit to a dermatologist and rheumatologist will help to reduce the severity of the manifestations of the disease, if appropriate therapy is prescribed. For the diagnosis, it is usually sufficient to examine, determine, the skin manifestations of psoriasis are so characteristic, but if necessary, a differential diagnosis is carried out, including a clinical blood test, feces for the presence of worm eggs and protozoa, and a histological examination of the skin. nine0003

Clinical blood test: general analysis, leukoformula, ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in the presence of pathological changes)

Synonyms: Complete blood count, UAC. Full blood count, FBC, Complete blood count (CBC) with differential white blood cell count (CBC with diff), Hemogram. Brief description of the study Clinical blood test: general...

Up to 1 business day

Available with house call

RUB 810

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Fecal analysis for helminth eggs (helminth eggs)

Synonyms: Feces on worm eggs; Analysis of feces for eggs of worms. Ova and Parasite Exam; O&P; Stool O&P test. Brief description of the study "Analysis of feces for eggs of helminths" ...

Up to 1 business day

Available with home visit

RUB 570

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Fecal analysis for protozoa (PRO stool)

Synonyms: Fecal analysis for protozoa. Parasite Exam, feces; Parasitic Examination, fecal. Brief description of the study "Analysis of feces for protozoa" Analysis of feces for c...

Up to 1 business day

Available with home visit

RUB 570

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Histological examination of biopsy material and material obtained during surgical interventions (endoscopic material; tissues of the female reproductive system; skin, soft tissues; hematopoietic and lymphoid tissue; bone and cartilage tissue)

Taking biomaterial is paid separately. According to the requirements of clause 17 of the Rules for conducting pathological and anatomical studies, approved. Order of the Ministry of Health of Russia...

Up to 5 business days

Available with home visit

2 880 RUB

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Diseases of the stomach and intestines can also lead to plaque formation on the skin. To identify the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract, it is enough to refer to therapist or gastroenterologist, conduct a number of endoscopic examinations (gastroscopy, and, if necessary, colonoscopy), ultrasound of the abdominal organs, perform some screening blood tests for diseases of the liver, intestines, stomach.

Gastroscopy

Examination of the mucosa of the upper gastrointestinal tract with the possibility of biopsy or endoscopic removal of small pathological . ..

RUB 4,440 Sign up

Colonoscopy

Endoscopic examination of the colon to look for abnormalities, biopsy, and remove small polyps and tumors.

RUB 5,740 Sign up

Comprehensive ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen)

Scanning of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity to assess its functional state and the presence of pathology.

RUB 2,890 Sign up

Liver function tests: screening

Up to 1 business day

Available with home visit

RUB 1,935

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Diagnosis of celiac disease: intolerance to cereal proteins (gluten)

Up to 8 business days

Available with home visit

7 520 RUB nine0003

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Gastropanel

Up to 9 business days

Available with home visit

RUB 4,760

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To clarify the diagnosis of keratoma, a skin biopsy is performed and epithelium scraping is performed, followed by microscopic and histochemical examination. nine0003

Histological examination of biopsy material and material obtained during surgical interventions (endoscopic material; tissues of the female reproductive system; skin, soft tissues; hematopoietic and lymphoid tissue; bone and cartilage tissue)

Taking biomaterial is paid separately. According to the requirements of clause 17 of the Rules for conducting pathological and anatomical studies, approved. Order of the Ministry of Health of Russia...

Up to 5 working days

Available with home visit

2 880 RUB

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Examination of scrapings and impressions of tumors and tumor-like formations

Material for research. Imprints and scrapings are obtained from pathological lesions of the skin and mucous membranes (except for the cervix and cervical canal). Relative to test...

Up to 2 working days

Available with home visit

RUB 1,030

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If atypical cells are detected in scrapings or biopsies, immediately contact oncologist.

If xanthomas appear on the skin, it is recommended to consult a cardiologist, take blood tests for lipid profile and blood glucose levels, and screen for diabetes mellitus. nine0003

Lipid profile screening

Up to 1 business day

Available with home visit

1 355 RUB

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Glucose (in the blood) (Glucose)

Research material Serum or blood plasma. If it is not possible to centrifuge the sample 30 minutes after collection for serum/plasma separation...

Up to 1 business day

Available with home visit

335 RUB

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Diabetes management: advanced

Up to 1 business day

Available with house call

RUB 5 820

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What should I do if plaques appear on the skin?

Any newly appeared neoplasms should be shown to a dermatologist. Their cosmetic removal without prior consultation with a specialist is fraught with serious consequences.

In addition, there are symptoms that require immediate medical attention:

• change in the shape of the plaque - the edges have become uneven;
• change in the surface of the plaque - cracks, ulcerations appeared;
• change in the size of the plaque - it began to grow rapidly above the surface of the skin or actively spread over it;
• discoloration of the plaque - in cases of malignancy, an uneven color of the formation is usually observed with areas of darker and lighter shades;
• the appearance of bleeding - both contact and spontaneous; nine0122
• enlargement of regional (nearby) lymph nodes.

Plaque treatment

When plaques of an allergic nature appear on the skin, antihistamines are prescribed, in cases of a severe course of the disease, glucocorticosteroids. In addition, it is important to follow a hypoallergenic diet.

Mycotic plaques require antifungal drugs, both local (ointments, creams) and systemic (tablets). Taking these drugs is associated with a high risk of side effects, and therefore it is possible only after consulting a doctor, accurate verification of the diagnosis and confirmation of the etiology of the disease. nine0003

Treatment of psoriasis is multi-stage and complex, it involves constant monitoring by a rheumatologist, taking cytostatics and other drugs, using ointments and shampoos to improve skin condition, using antihistamines to reduce itching, including physiotherapy and a hypoallergenic diet in the treatment regimen.

When confirming the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, properly selected therapy can stop the appearance of new plaques on the skin, as well as prevent the development of complications of the underlying disease. nine0003

Sources:

1. Clinical guidelines. Dermatitis herpetiformis // Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. 2016.
2. Clinical guidelines. Urticaria in children // Union of Pediatricians of Russia; Russian Association of Allergists and Clinical Immunologists. 2018.
3. Clinical guidelines. Toxidermia // Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. 2016.
4. Clinical guidelines. Familial hypercholesterolemia // National Society for the Study of Atherosclerosis. 2018.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes. nine0003

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