Nummular dermatitis

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Nummular dermatitis
Other namesDiscoid dermatitis, Discoid eczema, Microbial eczema, Nummular eczema, Nummular neurodermatitis
Lesions visible on outer thigh
SpecialtyDermatology
Differential diagnosisDermatophytosis (Ringworm)

Nummular dermatitis (commonly known as nummular eczema or discoid eczema) is one of the many forms of dermatitis.[1] It is characterized by round or oval-shaped itchy lesions.[2] The name comes from the Latin word "nummus," which means "coin."

Signs and symptoms

Nummular dermatitis is characterized by chronic or relapsing itchy coin-sized

ovoid-shaped red plaques.[3][4] They can occur on the trunk, limbs, face, and hands.[1][2][5]

Causes

Many contact sensitizers or irritants are known to cause contact dermatitis superimposed on nummular dermatitis. Studies have implicated nickel, cobalt, chromate, and fragrance as likely culprits.[6][7] Xerosis, or dehydration of skin is also a likely cause.[8] Infection with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria or Candida albicans may also play a role.[8]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nummular dermatitis is largely via clinical observation. Biopsies are typically not necessary, and cannot be used to rule out other atopic dermatitis or other eczemas.[9][10] However, patch testing may be employed to rule out irritants (contact dermatitis) as a cause.[6][11] In children, nummular dermatitis is commonly confused with tinea corporis.[8]

Treatment

One of the keys to treatment and prevention involves keeping the skin moisturized.

ultraviolet light treatment. If the condition occurs only during the sun-less winter months then vitamin D supplement might be an effective treatment.[citation needed
]

Epidemiology

The prevalence of nummular dermatitis in the United States is approximately 2 per 1,000.[12] It is considered a disease of adulthood, for it is rare in children.[13]

See also

References

  1. ^
    PMID 13881857
    .
  2. ^
    PMID 13275125
    .
  3. PMID 10901730
    .
  4. PMID 5695586
    .
  5. PMID 19429739
    .
  6. ^
    S2CID 43205871
    .
  7. S2CID 446758
    .
  8. ^
    PMID 15930422
    .
  9. PMID 18402293
    .
  10. S2CID 5339404
    .
  11. PMID 16394482
    .
  12. ^ Johnson ML, Roberts J (1977-01-01). "Prevalence of dermatological disease among persons 1-74 years of age: United States". ADV Data Natl CTR Health Statistics.
  13. S2CID 42426282
    .

External links

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