Inflammation that often occurs to the outer layer of skin is called eczema. An outside irritant often causes the immune system to have a reaction and cause the problem, but the actual cause is unknown. A broad range of issues are actually covered under the use of the term that includes symptoms of skin that is dry, inflamed, red, itchy and irritated. There are several different forms that are likely to present. One term known as dermatitis is used in place of eczema when the condition is acute in nature.

Eczema is a skin condition that often causes inflammation, peeling, and itching of the skin. There are several types of dermatitis and a variety of triggers that cause break outs. Taking care of problems in a timely manner is the best way to eliminate the symptoms.

Any persistent or recurrent condition of the skin can be classified as eczema. Dry, itchy, flaky or rashy problems, as well as blistered and/or oozing areas are examples of problems that can fall under this diagnosis. There are different types of eczema depending on the area of the body they affect and the type of symptom or symptoms that are present.

A type of dermatitis, eczema affects the epidermis or external layer of the skin. There are 10 different types of eczema including atopic, contact dermatitis, xerotic, seborrheic dermatitis, dyshidrosis, iscoid, venous, dermatitis herpetiformis, neurodermatitis and autoeczematization.

Eczema can affect people from all age groups. It is usually found to have genetic roots but it is not contagious. This skin condition can appear anywhere on the body.