Asteatotic Eczema
Asteatotic means without fat and this form of eczema is associated with a decrease in skin surface lipids. Also known as eczema cracquelée this type of eczema almost always affects people over the age of 60. The cause is not known but asteatotic eczema can be linked to a decrease in the oils on the skin surface, low humidity, over cleansing of the skin, hot baths, scrubbing the skin and vigorous towel drying. Pre-existing dryness and roughness of the skin are also linked to this type of eczema. Asteatotic eczema initially appears on the shins with a crazy paving appearance. Fissures or grooves can appear which look pink and red, but tend to only affect the superficial layers of the skin. Other areas that can be affected are upper arms, thighs and lower back but it is usually linked to the legs. It can cause a great deal of discomfort including soreness and itching.
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