A stepwise approach to treating eczema

NICE recommends a stepped approach to eczema management following the physical examination you conduct during each patient consultation1:

Treatment flow chart
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Step 1:

Emollients are the mainstay of therapy for everyone and should be used even when the skin is clear.

Step 2:

Treatment is stepped up from emollients to steroids with potency appropriate to 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. 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

Date of preparation: May 2009 / Code: E&D 09-003