A stepwise approach to treating eczema
NICE recommends a stepped approach to eczema management following the physical examination you conduct during each patient consultation. This means tailoring the treatment step to the severity of the eczema and stepping treatment up or down depending upon the symptoms.1
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Step 1:
Emollients are the foundation of eczema treatment for everyone and should be used even when the skin is clear.
Step 2:
Treatment is stepped up to include steroids with a potency appropriate to the severity of the flare-ups (see chart alongside).
Step 3:
Additional treatments such as bandaging, phototherapy and systemic therapy are available for moderate to severe conditions.
NB: As the flare subsides, treatment should be stepped down accordingly.
References:
- 1.NICE (2007) Atopic eczema in children. Management of atopic eczema in children from birth up to the age of 12 years. Clinical Guideline 57, London, December 2007