How to manage childhood eczema

doi:10.1136/bmj.324.7350.0/d

How to manage childhood eczema

One in 10 children in developed countries are affected by atopic eczema. Barnetson and Rogers (p 1376) give an overview ofthe clinical features, psychological factors, precipitating factors,and management of the condition. Four in five children with atopiceczema have IgE mediated allergy to inhalants or foods. The highestproportion of IgE is produced against house dust mite, makingthe mite the most important allergen in the exacerbation of eczema.Food allergy, however, is an exacerbating factor in fewer thanone in 10 children. For children with severe eczema, topical ororal immunosuppression can reduce the need for hospital admission.