Treatment options for eczema

Management of eczema aims to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, such as infections, until remission occurs. General principles of eczema management for mild to moderate atopic eczema include emollient therapy and topical therapy, which include topical corticosteroids or immunomodulators, antibacterial and antibiotics and antihistamines. In severe eczema, secondary care referral is required for phototherapy and/or systemic therapy. Severe complex conditions such as atopic eczema require a multidisciplinary approach; a model of international excellence of hospital-based support is illustrated by the National Jewish Medical and Research Center in the USA (Boguniewicz et al., 2008) and specifically nursing advances within (Nicol and Boguniewicz, 2008).

Eczema treatment can only be successful if patients and their carers are fully supported with information, education and practical treatment advice on self-management. Advice on avoiding exacerbating and trigger factors (see Table 9.1) including soaps, detergents, temperature extremes and irritant clothing is important to avoid increasing severity.