Like all forms of eczema, nummular eczema can be very itchy and come and go in episodes.
Oozing and crusting can also occur.
Nummular eczema is rare in children.
Jessica Olah / Verywell
Unlike some forms of eczema, nummular eczema responds well to gentle skincare and topicalsteroids.
Jessica Olah / Verywell
What Does Nummular Eczema Look Like?
Its name is derived from the Latin wordnummusmeaning “coin.”
The outbreak is often bilateral (affecting both sides of the body).
Most secondary infections involve a bacteria known asStaphylococcus aureus.
What Causes Nummular Eczema?
With that said, scientists have only begun to identify the gene mutations associated with the disease.
Children rarely get nummular eczema and, when they do, it tends to be very severe.
How Nummular Psoriasis Diagnosed
Nummular eczema is best diagnosed by a skin specialist known as adermatologist.
The diagnosis is based on a review of your medical history and the signs and symptoms of the disease.
How Is Nummular Eczema Treated?
There is no cure for nummular eczema, but there are several ways to effectively manage the condition.
Skincare
Skin dryness is one of the major factors that contribute to exacerbations.
Keeping the skin well moisturized strengthens the barrier protection and reduces the risk of flare-ups.
Topical steroids are generally applied to affected skin two to four times daily.
Ointments are often preferred over gels as they have emollients that help moisturize the skin.
For severe cases, an oral steroid likeprednisonemay be needed to bring the flare-up under control.
The drug is taken by mouth every day for one to three weeks depending on the severity of symptoms.
Finding the right coping tools can help you manage while you undergo treatment.
Talking to trusted people in your life can help.
Support groups allow you to reach out to others who know what you’re going through.
Supportive resources can be found through theNational Eczema Association.
Ask your healthcare provider for recommendations.
Symptoms can come and go in recurrent flares.
Nummular eczema is diagnosed based on your symptoms and the exclusion of other possible causes.
There is no cure for nummular eczema.
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