Home Eczema Nummular Eczema: A Little Known Condition
Nummular Eczema: A Little Known Condition
Skin Care - Eczema
Eczema is one of the most common skin diseases that can often be inherited. Generally, stress, certain allergens, or chemicals that can become irritants can be causes of this skin condition. One of the types of eczema is called Nummular eczema. “Nummular” comes from the work “nummus,” which in Latin means “small coin.” Nummular eczema can be seen as coin-shaped patches of eczema on the skin. This skin disorder is most often caused by allergies. The itchy patches can usually be seen on the lower legs, buttocks, back, and arms. Generally, they are extremely itchy and can form crusts. Some also refer to it through its other name: nummular dermatitis.

This skin condition is usually chronic and recurring. With continuous exposure to environmental irritants, rapid changes in temperature, and stress, this condition will worsen. The exact cause of nummular eczema still baffles experts and doctors until today. While nummular eczema may be uncommon, it mostly occurs in elderly men.

The symptoms of this type of eczema include itching and forming of skin gashes that look like pustules or patches. Other symptoms are inflammation and a reddish appearance of the patches. The doctor makes the diagnosis based on the skin appearance and on the history of the family or relatives. Some doctors would recommend a skin biopsy in order to exclude other possible causes of the patches.

While the cause of nummular eczema is still unknown, its treatments are mostly geared toward relieving the major symptoms, namely itching and burning. Skin creams and ointments are prescribed for the treatment of this condition. The application of soothing soaps, wet dressings, and lotions can also be included in the treatment. Mild topical steroids and antipruritic lotions are recommended to relieve less acute, scaly, or dry areas. These can also be used on the healing areas. Patches of skin that still has nummular eczema can be treated with creams or ointments with corticosteroids or tar. These have a softening and lubricating effect on the skin.

Nummular eczema can be described as an ever-present condition, but with proper treatment, it can be brought under control. The development of secondary skin infections is one of the possible complications resulting from improper treatment or neglect of the affected area. Experts and doctors do not know any way of preventing this condition yet. However, one of the immediate remedies for the affected people is to avoid irritants and other aggravating factors as described above.