The itchy, coin-shaped rash on your skin may be discoid eczema. The condition is characterized by itchy, swollen, or cracked skin. It may occur in groups of small bumps and can often be mistaken for skin allergies.
Here, we discuss the common symptoms of discoid eczema, who is at risk, and the treatment options available. Keep reading.
Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition. It is a chronic condition that causes coin-like rashes or plaques of eczema. Discoid eczema leads to itchy, swollen, and cracked skin. It can last for weeks, months, or even years, and may recur too.
Discoid eczema can affect different parts of your body. However, the lower legs, hands, forearms, and trunk are the commonly affected areas. Dr. Kellie Reed, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “It is traditionally on the extremities (lower legs in men, forearms, and tops of hands in women).”
Quick Tip
The word ‘nummular’ (another name for discoid eczema) comes from the Latin word ‘nummus’, meaning ‘coin’ since the lesions look like a small circle.
As there are different types of eczema, knowing the symptoms of discoid eczema can help identify it. We have discussed the same in the next section.
Discoid eczema initially manifests as a group of small spots or bumps on the skin. These small bumps may clump together to form larger patches. They can be pink, red, or darker brown – depending on your skin tone.
The patches are:
You may develop more than one patch at the same time. The skin at the center of the patch is often dry. Over time, this central part clears and only the outer part remains.
Scratching the patches can cause infection, whose signs include:
A blogger describes her experience of struggling with discoid eczema and how painful it has been. She shares that she had initially started on steroidal creams to manage the condition but discontinued it, adding, “TSW [topical steroid withdrawal] followers believe that long term steroidal use actually perpetuates the eczema problem. Which is quite true in my experience because despite my faithful use of steroid creams over the years, my eczema patches never really healed. Instead, I encountered even more patches popping up all over my limbs. For true healing to take place, I needed to stop the use of steroids completely. C O M P L E T E L Y…. My discoid eczema patches are in a terrible state. They are angry red and oozing yellowish plasma. Some of them have a thickened scaly surface. It’s utter gross-ness (i).”
Some people may develop discoid eczema more frequently. New spots appear as the older ones clear. More than one patch may occur at the same time. Certain people could be more prone to this skin condition. Let us understand more in the next section.
While anyone may develop discoid eczema, people with a history of atopic eczema and allergic contact dermatitis are at a higher risk.
Children with severe atopic dermatitis can develop excessively dry and itchy skin. This may cause discoid eczema.
However, discoid eczema is known to usually manifest in people belonging to the following age groups (1):
It is important to note that discoid eczema is more common in women than in men. Though some people are more prone to this eczema, the actual cause is not clear. However, certain factors may increase the risk.
According to Dr. Reed, “The exact cause has not been determined. However, there are views considering that discoid eczema may be due to skin infections (secondary to bacterial colonization), contact allergies or irritants, or xerosis (dry skin).”
It is more likely to affect people who:
The risk factors of discoid eczema include minor skin injuries including an insect bite or a burn. The affected area may develop patches. Discoid eczema worsens in dry and cold climates. But sunny and humid environments may improve discoid eczema symptoms. In a study, the prevalence of eczema was found to be low in parts of the United States where there was increased humidity, UV index, and temperature (2). Alcoholism is another risk factor for discoid eczema (3).
Start treatment as soon as possible to prevent further infection. A doctor may prescribe different remedies to heal your skin condition. Keep reading to know the diagnosis and treatment options.
Quick Tip
Keep a journal to identify potential triggers or irritants that coincide with flare-ups. This can include specific foods, environmental factors, or skin care products.
The doctor inspects your skin and analyzes your medical history. A skin biopsy may also be performed to determine whether the rash is discoid eczema.
The doctor may perform a patch test if they suspect the rash to be caused by an external allergic reaction. According to a study, allergic contact dermatitis is relatively common in persistent discoid eczema (4). Hence, a patch test is recommended for all patients with severe discoid eczema.
Discoid eczema can be cleared in a few weeks with proper treatment (5). But since there is no cure for eczema, you can keep the condition under control with the following:
You can also follow a few other home remedies to reduce the chances of discoid eczema:
Discoid eczema is a chronic condition that may reappear. But a few prevention tips may help.
Discoid eczema can be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, you may have to seek medical help if the condition aggravates. Dr. Reed says, “If the skin cannot be managed with over-the-counter creams, or if it is widespread, itchy, or uncomfortable, it is recommended you seek out a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation.”
In some cases, other rashes can also mimic the appearance of discoid eczema. Consult your doctor to confirm the cause and diagnose the rashes.
Discoid eczema can affect anyone, although it is more common in persons who have dry or sensitive skin. This skin ailment is also more likely to occur in people who have a family history of other skin problems. Therefore, follow the above-mentioned preventative measures to be careful. You can manage the condition with regular moisturization and a healthy lifestyle. The good news is that you can effectively treat it with careful and regular treatment. However, over-the-counter medications are rarely effective for this type of eczema. Instead, schedule an appointment with your doctor to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Is discoid eczema a fungal infection?
Currently, the exact cause behind discoid eczema is unknown.
Is discoid eczema contagious?
No, discoid eczema is not contagious.
Listen to the expert advice from a dermatologist on managing discoid eczema effectively. The below video shares essential tips, including skincare routines, gentle products, and lifestyle adjustments to alleviate symptoms and maintain healthier skin. Play now!