Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It often begins in childhood but can affect people of all ages. For many patients, eczema is closely linked to allergies, asthma, and immune system sensitivity, making evaluation by a board-certified allergist an important part of effective, long-term care.

At AllergySA, our allergists specialize in identifying the underlying triggers of eczema and creating personalized treatment plans to help patients find lasting relief.

What Is Eczema?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition in which the skin’s protective barrier does not function properly. This allows moisture to escape and irritants, allergens, and bacteria to enter the skin more easily, leading to inflammation and itching. Eczema often occurs alongside other allergic conditions such as hay fever, food allergies, and asthma, a pattern known as the allergic, or atopic march.  A baby who presents with eczema may benefit from an evaluation by a board certified allergy specialist so they can monitor for allergic developments later.

Eczema is not contagious, but it can be chronic and prone to flare-ups without proper management.

Common Symptoms of Eczema

Symptoms of eczema can vary by age and severity and may include:

• Persistent itching, often worse at night
• Dry, rough, or scaly skin
• Red or inflamed patches
• Thickened or cracked skin
• Oozing or crusting during flare-ups
• Skin infections caused by scratching

In children, eczema commonly affects the face, neck, elbows, and knees, while adults may experience symptoms on the hands, eyelids, or flexural areas.

What Causes Eczema?

Eczema is caused by a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. Common contributors include:

• A family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies
• Overactive immune responses
• Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander
• Irritants like soaps, detergents, or fragrances
• Food allergies in some children
• Stress, weather changes, and infections

Because allergic triggers often play a role, our allergists are uniquely trained to identify and manage these underlying contributors.

How an Allergist Diagnoses Eczema

Your AllergySA specialist will begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Diagnosis is typically clinical, but your allergist may also evaluate for allergic triggers that can worsen eczema. These may include a review of skincare routines, exposures, and flare patterns; and an assessment for associated conditions such as asthma or allergic rhinitis.

Our allergists also utilize allergy skin testing or blood tests to identify environmental or food allergens. Identifying triggers allows your allergy specialist to treat not only the skin symptoms but also the factors driving inflammation.

Eczema Treatment Options Offered in our San Antonio Clinics

Eczema treatment focuses on restoring the skin barrier, controlling inflammation, and preventing flare-ups. Your personalized treatment plan may include:

Skin Care & Trigger Avoidance

• Daily moisturizing routines
• Gentle, fragrance-free soaps, detergents, and body products
• Allergen avoidance strategies when relevant

Medications

• Topical anti-inflammatory creams or ointments
• Antihistamines to reduce itching and improve sleep
• Short courses of oral medications for severe flares

Advanced Therapies - Biologics

For moderate to severe eczema that does not respond to standard treatments, your AllergySA specialist may recommend biologic therapies or other targeted immune-modulating medications. These newer treatments help control inflammation at its source and have significantly improved outcomes for many patients.