Eczema

The term eczema is broadly applied to many persistent skin conditions. These include dryness and

recurring skin rashes that are characterized by one or more of following symptoms

​

• itching and dryness,

• crusting &flaking,

• blistering,

• cracking,

• oozing or bleeding.

• Skin edema or swelling

​

Cause:

The cause of eczema is unknown but is presumed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.[5]

Another study identified a gene that the researchers believe to be the cause of inherited eczema and some

related disorders. The gene produces the protein filaggrin , the lack of which causes dry skin and impaired skin

barrier function.[66]A recent study indicated that two specific chemicals found in the blood are connected to the

itching sensations associated with eczema. The chemicals are neurotrophic factor & P substance.In a genome-wide

study published on Dec 25, 2011 in Nature Genetics, researchers reported discovery of three new genetic variants

• associated with eczema. They are OVOL1, ACTL9 and IL4-KIF3A.

​