Nummular eczema

Definition

Nummular eczema is a dermatitis (skin inflammation) in which itchy, coin-shaped spots or patches appear on the skin. The word nummular is Latin for "resembling coins."

Alternative Names

Eczema - discoid; Nummular dermatitis

Causes

The cause of nummular eczema is unknown. But there usually is a personal or family history of:

Things that can make the condition worse include:

Symptoms

Symptoms may include any of the following:

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider can usually diagnose this condition by looking at your skin and asking about your family's medical history.

A skin biopsy may be needed to check for other similar conditions. Allergy testing may be done.

Treatment

Eczema is often treated with medicines applied to the skin. These are called topical medicines, and may include:

You may also be asked to try a wet wrap treatment. This involves the following steps:

The following measures may help improve your symptoms or prevent them from returning if your skin has cleared:

Outlook (Prognosis)

Nummular eczema is a long-term (chronic) condition. Medical treatment and avoiding irritants can help reduce symptoms.

Possible Complications

A secondary infection of the skin may develop.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider if you have symptoms of this condition.

Also contact your provider if:

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent the disorder.

References

Dinulos JGH. Eczema and hand dermatitis. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.

James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Eczema, atopic dermatitis, and noninfectious immunodeficiency disorders. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 5.



Review Date: 5/31/2023
Reviewed By: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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