czema (atopic dermatitis) and urticaria (hives) are both skin conditions characterized by inflammation and itching, but they have distinct causes, symptoms, and presentations: 1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): - Cause: Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that results from a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. - Presentation: Eczema typically presents with dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin that may be red, scaly, and thickened. - Diagnosis: Diagnosis of eczema is based on clinical evaluation, medical history, and examination of the affected skin. - Treatment: Treatment for eczema aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve skin barrier function. It may include moisturizers, topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines (for itching), phototherapy, and lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers. 2. Urticaria (Hives): - Cause: Urticaria is a transient, inflammatory skin reaction characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, red, itchy welts or bumps on the skin. - Presentation: Urticaria presents as raised, pink or red welts or plaques on the skin that may vary in size, shape, and distribution. - Diagnosis: Diagnosis of urticaria is based on the characteristic appearance of the skin lesions and a thorough medical history to identify potential triggers or underlying causes. - Treatment: Treatment for urticaria aims to relieve itching and reduce inflammation. It may include oral antihistamines, corticosteroids (for acute flare-ups), avoidance of triggers, and in some cases, medications such as leukotriene receptor antagonists or immunosuppressants for chronic or refractory cases.
