Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin response characterised by flare-ups and remissions. It mostly affects children but can also be found in adults.
Alternative names: Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome [AEDS])
Reviewed by Professor Sharon Kling, Clinical Unit Head, General Paediatrics, Intensivist at Tygerberg Hospital and Associate Professor, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at Stellenbosch University. February 2015.
Original article by Dr Harris Steinman, May 2007.