Eczema

Eczema is a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchy, dry, red and sometimes cracked or weeping patches of skin.

The term is often used interchangeably with atopic dermatitis, its most common form, but it also covers contact dermatitis from irritants or allergens, dyshidrotic eczema on the hands and feet, seborrheic dermatitis and nummular eczema with coin-shaped patches. Itch is the defining symptom and can be severe enough to disturb sleep. Flares are triggered by dry air, harsh soaps, sweat, stress, allergens and scratching itself.

Dermatologists diagnose eczema by examining the skin and taking a history; patch testing identifies contact allergens, and skin biopsy is rarely needed. Daily moisturizing, trigger avoidance and prescribed anti-inflammatory therapies form the standard approach. Direct human evidence on cannabidiol for eczema is limited and does not support treatment claims.