Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, scaly patchy lesions and intense itching.

Itching of the skin can cause red raised spots, thickened skin and open cuts on the skin surface.

Intense itching makes it difficult to sleep, resulting in fatigue, poor performance at school and work, difficulty performing activities of daily living and an overall poorer quality of life.
Genetic and environmental factors have been implicated as causes of eczema. Studies have shown that a large proportion of patients have a hereditary deficiency or faulty production of a protein that strengthens the upper layer of the skin, so that the skin is more permeable to allergenic substances from the environment compared to other individuals.

Eczema can affect people of any age and gender. Most cases of eczema start in childhood, but it is possible to develop eczema for the first time as an adult.