Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects approximately 16.5 million adults and 9.6 million children in the United States, making it the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease. This lifelong condition significantly impacts quality of life through intense itching, sleep disruption, and visible skin changes. With prevalence ranging from 15-20% in children to 7.2% in adults, effective management requires specialized dermatologic care.
Dr. Kristine Zitelli provides comprehensive eczema treatment for patients throughout Cincinnati and nearby Montgomery, offering personalized approaches for both pediatric and adult cases.
Not only provides excellent care but truly cares.
Understanding Eczema and Its Impact
Atopic dermatitis is a complex condition involving genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, and skin barrier defects. The hallmark symptom of intense pruritus often leads to sleep disturbance, affecting not just patients but entire families. Approximately 60% of patients develop symptoms in their first year of life, with 90% experiencing onset within the first five years.
The condition follows predictable age-related patterns, with infants typically showing involvement of the face and extensor surfaces, while children and adults develop the classic flexural distribution affecting elbows, knees, and neck areas. Understanding these patterns helps guide appropriate treatment strategies.
Age-Specific Presentations
Infantile Eczema (2 months – 2 years)
- Distribution: Face, scalp, and extensor surfaces with sparing of diaper area
- Characteristics: Erythematous, weeping, and crusted lesions with significant pruritus
- Associated Features: Cradle cap, generalized dryness, and frequent secondary infections
- Management Focus: Gentle skin care, appropriate moisturizing, and topical anti-inflammatory agents
Childhood Eczema (2-12 years)
- Flexural involvement including antecubital and popliteal fossae
- Less exudative with more lichenified plaques
- Hand and foot involvement becoming more common
- School-related challenges requiring comprehensive management
Adult Eczema
- Chronic Features: Prominent lichenification, hand dermatitis, and facial involvement
- Distribution Patterns: Flexural areas, hands, eyelids, and sometimes generalized involvement
- Psychological Impact: Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and work-related disability
- Comorbidities: Increased association with cardiovascular disease and autoimmune conditions
Dr. Zitelli’s Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Effective eczema management requires addressing multiple factors including skin barrier repair, inflammation control, trigger identification, and patient education. Dr. Zitelli develops individualized treatment plans based on age, severity, and lifestyle factors.
“Successful eczema treatment isn’t just about controlling flares–it’s about restoring skin health, preventing complications, and helping patients live comfortably with their condition,” explains Dr. Zitelli.
Evidence-Based Treatment Strategies
Topical Therapies
- Moisturizing and Barrier Repair: Daily application of appropriate emollients within three minutes of bathing to trap moisture and restore barrier function
- Topical Corticosteroids: Carefully selected potency based on age, location, and severity with proper education about safe usage
- Calcineurin Inhibitors: Non-steroidal options for sensitive areas and long-term maintenance therapy
- Newer Topical Agents: PDE4 inhibitors and JAK inhibitors for patients requiring steroid alternatives
Systemic Treatment Options
For moderate to severe cases, Dr. Zitelli may recommend systemic therapies including traditional immunosuppressives like methotrexate or azathioprine, biologic therapies targeting specific immune pathways, oral JAK inhibitors for appropriate candidates, or phototherapy for widespread involvement.
Advanced Management Approaches
Pediatric Considerations
Children require special attention to growth, development, and psychosocial factors. Dr. Zitelli works closely with families to develop age-appropriate treatment plans that minimize school disruption and social challenges.
Family-Centered Care
Parents and caregivers receive comprehensive education about proper skincare techniques, medication application, trigger avoidance, and when to seek immediate care. Sleep hygiene strategies help address the significant impact on family rest patterns.
School and Activity Management
Practical guidance for managing eczema during sports, swimming, and other activities while maintaining treatment effectiveness and preventing flares.
Adult-Specific Challenges
Adult eczema often presents unique challenges including occupational exposures, stress-related triggers, and complex treatment adherence issues. Dr. Zitelli addresses these factors through personalized care plans.
Occupational Considerations
Assessment of workplace exposures and coordination with occupational health when appropriate to minimize work-related triggers while maintaining employment.
Pregnancy and Reproductive Health
Safe treatment options during pregnancy and breastfeeding with careful consideration of maternal and fetal health.
Lifestyle Integration and Prevention
Long-term success requires comprehensive lifestyle modifications that patients can maintain consistently.
Daily Skincare Routines
Gentle cleansing with appropriate products, immediate moisturizing after bathing, and consistent application of prescribed treatments form the foundation of eczema management.
Environmental Management
- Home Environment: Humidity control, dust mite reduction, and appropriate clothing choices
- Trigger Avoidance: Identification and minimization of personal triggers including stress, certain foods, or environmental allergens
- Stress Management: Recognition of the stress-eczema cycle and implementation of appropriate coping strategies
Complications and When to Seek Care
Dr. Zitelli educates patients about recognizing complications that require immediate attention, including secondary bacterial infections, eczema herpeticum from viral infections, and severe flares unresponsive to usual treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eczema Treatment
While many children experience improvement during adolescence, eczema can persist into adulthood. About 20% of children with early-onset eczema have persisting symptoms, while others may have intermittent flares.
Food allergies affect some eczema patients, particularly children. Testing can identify specific triggers, but unnecessary dietary restrictions should be avoided. Dr. Zitelli can help determine if food allergy evaluation is appropriate.
When used appropriately under dermatologic supervision, topical corticosteroids are safe and effective. Dr. Zitelli provides guidance on proper use and monitoring to minimize potential side effects.
Yes, stress is a well-documented trigger for eczema flares. Managing stress through appropriate techniques can be an important component of overall treatment success.
Eczema specifically refers to atopic dermatitis, which has characteristic features and patterns. Other types of dermatitis have different causes and may require different treatments.
Comprehensive Eczema Care in Cincinnati
Dr. Zitelli’s approach to eczema management combines the latest medical advances with practical, family-friendly strategies that work in real-world settings. Her understanding of both pediatric and adult eczema ensures appropriate care throughout all life stages.
By addressing the complex factors that contribute to eczema and providing ongoing support, Dr. Zitelli helps patients achieve long-term skin health and improved quality of life.
Begin Your Journey to Healthier Skin
Take the first step toward better eczema control and improved quality of life. Contact Queen City Dermatology today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Zitelli and discover personalized treatment strategies that work for your lifestyle.
