Medicines for Discoid eczema

What it is

Discoid eczema (also called nummular eczema) is a form of eczema that causes distinctive coin-shaped (round or oval) patches of itchy, inflamed skin — the name comes from "discoid" (disc-shaped) and "nummular" (coin-shaped). The patches can appear anywhere but are common on the lower legs, forearms and trunk, and start as groups of small spots or bumps that join into larger patches, which may be red, pink or brownish (and can look different on darker skin), and are often very itchy. The patches can become dry, scaly, cracked, weepy or crusted, and sometimes become infected. It tends to be a chronic condition that comes and goes, with flare-ups and clearer periods. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is linked to dry skin, and can be triggered or worsened by factors such as skin injury, dryness, irritants, cold weather, and stress. It can occur on its own or in people with other types of eczema or dry skin. Discoid eczema is not contagious. Although it can be persistent and itchy, it is manageable with the usual eczema treatments.

How it is treated

Discoid eczema is treated much like other forms of eczema, and most people improve with a combination of good skin care and treatments to settle the inflammation. The foundation is regular, generous use of emollients (moisturisers) to keep the skin hydrated, used frequently and as soap substitutes, which both treats and helps prevent flare-ups. For active, inflamed patches, topical steroid creams or ointments (of an appropriate strength, guided by a doctor) reduce the inflammation and itching and are the main treatment for flares; because discoid eczema patches can be stubborn, a stronger steroid or a longer course is sometimes needed than for milder eczema. Where patches become infected (increasingly weepy, crusted, or not settling), treatment for the infection may be needed. Avoiding known triggers and irritants, managing dryness (especially in cold weather), and not scratching (which perpetuates it) all help. For persistent or widespread discoid eczema not responding to these measures, a doctor may consider other treatments or referral to a dermatologist. The reassuring message is that discoid eczema, though it can be itchy and persistent, is not contagious and is usually manageable with regular moisturising and steroid creams for flares, alongside avoiding triggers.