Assessment and management of eczema in adults in the community setting

Eczema describes a set of inflammatory skin disorders characterised by dry, red, itchy skin. It presents on different body sites depending on the cause and is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting 1 in every 12 adults (All Party Parliamentary Group on Skin, 2003; National Eczema Society, 2010). Eczema is a highly individual and variable condition, often presenting in the long term, although it can exhibit acute episodes as well. Since it is a challenge to self manage, nurses, particularly those working in the community setting, must be confident in knowing how to support patients. This may be by accessing appropriate information, providing choices of emollient products to use, optimising topical therapies, providing medical advice and signposting patients when needed.

This article outlines the different presentations of eczema in adulthood and how to recognise and treat them. For community prescribers, it is important that they are knowledgeable about local formularies and the first-line therapies available, as well as when it is appropriate to suggest over-the-counter products.