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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Eczema - nummular; Nummular dermatitisDefinition Return to top
Nummular eczema is an allergy-related disorder in which itchy, coin-shaped spots or patches appear on the skin.
Causes Return to top
The cause of nummular eczema is unknown, but there usually is a personal or family history of:
It is relatively uncommon, and most often occurs in elderly men.
Several things may make the condition worse, including
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
Your doctor can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin and asking you about your family's medical history.
A skin biopsy may be needed to rule out other similar conditions.
Treatment Return to top
Avoid triggers that can make your symptoms worse, such as wool, lanolin, and certain foods. Experts do not recommend taking frequent baths - excess bathing and soaps can cause dry skin, which often makes the condition worse.
Your doctor may recommend skin lotions, soaps, or moist bandages to soothe scaly, dry, or healing areas.
Persons with severe symptoms may be given prescription skin ointments that contain tar, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressive drugs. In rare, severe cases, the doctor may prescribe more powerful corticosteroids to be taken by mouth or injection.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Nummular eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. Medical treatment and avoiding irritants can help reduce symptoms.
Possible Complications Return to top
A secondary infection of the skin may develop.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition.
Also call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
Prevention Return to top
There is no known way to prevent the disorder. Avoid any triggers that make your symptoms worse.
References Return to top
Morelli JG. Eczematous disorders. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap654.
Update Date: 4/17/2009 Updated by: Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
