Childhood eczema, a common inflammatory and allergic skin reaction. Infantile eczema is often related to an allergic constitution, influenced by a combination of congenital and acquired environmental and lifestyle factors.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of eczema include dry, itchy skin, and in severe cases, red rashes, peeling, bleeding sores, and even complications like viral infections, erythroderma, and hypothermia, which may require emergency hospital admission. This is because, at this stage, various organs, including the heart, can be affected. Therefore, do not underestimate the severity of eczema.
Traditional treatment methods
Patients with moderate to severe paediatric eczema present with more pronounced symptoms, frequent flare-ups, larger affected areas, or even generalised eczema. Standard topical treatments are often insufficient to control the condition. Traditional treatment methods include ultraviolet (UV) light therapy and immunosuppressants, both of which manage eczema by suppressing the skin's overactive immune response. However, UV light therapy requires frequent clinic visits for exposure, and prolonged irradiation may increase the risk of skin cancer. Immunosuppressants, on the other hand, may affect liver and kidney function, and increase the risk of infection and cancer.
Biologic therapy
In recent years, biologic treatments have emerged as a new option, targeting the skin's immune response and suitable for patients aged 6 and above. This subcutaneous injection therapy offers precise efficacy with fewer side effects. The average cost per injection is approximately $10,000, and long-term use is required. The administration schedule and dosage vary depending on the condition and age: children aged 6 to 11 receive an injection every 4 weeks, while those aged 12 to 17 receive one every 2 weeks. This treatment method is being used by an increasing number of patients.
Parental advice
Both patients and their families will face long-term challenges. Parents should do their best to ensure children have a normal social life, avoid excessive anxiety, and strengthen communication with the school. They should patiently explain to those around them that eczema is not contagious. Parents should also follow the doctor's instructions to take medication on time, pay attention to reactions to medication, and not decide to start or stop medication on their own.
