Nummular Dermatitis - Symptoms & Treatment

Nummular dermatitis is one of the many forms of dermatitis . Also known as discoid dermatitis , it is characterized by round or oval-shaped itchy lesions. The word "nummular" comes from the Latin nummus , meaning coin, and is used to describe a dermititis characterized by round plaques of eczema. Eruptions of nummular dermatitis are often recurrent and chronic and usually appear in people who are in their 60s but can occur at any age. The coin-shaped patches can affect any part of the body, but the legs and buttocks are the most common areas. Flare-ups are associated with dry skin, so the winter season is a particularly bad time for those with this condition. One of the keys to treatment and prevention involves keeping the skin moisturized. Lotions , creams, and bath oils may help prevent an outbreak. If the condition flares up, a common treatment involves the application of topical corticosteroids. Oral antihistamines may help lessen itching. More severe cases sometimes respond to ultraviolet light treatment.

A pruritic dermatosis, characterized by round to oval areas of vesiculation, superficial crusting, and redness. Nummular eczematous dermatitis is a name given to a stubborn, itchy rash that forms coin-shaped patches on the skin . The lesions as they get older may clear in the center resembling ring worm or fungus. The condition tends to be chronic, with periods of quiescence and exacerbation. The cause of nummular dermatitis is unknown. Nummular eczema is frequently associated with dry skin. Wool, soaps and frequent bathing (more than once a day) often worsen the condition. Other conditions that need to be considered when looking at nummular dermatitis are psoriasis, tinea corporis, and parapsoriasis (although this is usually not itchy). Drug eruptions have been reported as presenting with eczema or nummular dermatitis appearance. Other conditions may have superficial similarities including impetigo, Bowen's disease and mycosis fungoides. In situations where there is doubt, KOH examination or bacterial swabs and / or biopsy may be required. Patch testing can be useful. In some cases where a contact dermatitis can be identified, clearing can be achieved by avoidance of the allergen.

Causes of Nummular Dermatitis

Find common causes and risk factors of Nummular Dermatitis :

• The cause is unknown. It is more common in the winter.
• Wool, soaps and frequent bathing (more than once a day) often worsen the condition.
• Nummular eczema is frequently associated with dry skin.

Signs and Symptoms of Nummular Dermatitis

Sign and symptoms may include the following :

• Itching .
• Skin redness or inflammation .
• Scaly or excoriated (raw) skin .
• Coin-shaped skin lesions.

Treatment for Nummular Dermatitis

Treatment may include:

• There is no cure. However, there are effective ways of controlling it such as Epitrex and similar natural treatments.
• When using cortisone creams or lotion always remember to use a little and massage it in well.
• Avoid contact with wool or rough clothing. Cotton clothes, (100%) are best.
• It is possible to find a treatment routine that lets you control your nummular eczema. Usually with cortisone creams or ointments and a lot of Vaseline.