Pocket Guide to Eczema and Contact Dermatitis

An illustrated guide summarizing the features of various eczema subtypes and contact dermatitis, serving as a reference tool for GPs and dermatology nurses responsible for instituting appropriate management and identifying possible cases of contact allergy for referral to further diagnosis.

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The eczemas account for roughly 10% of hospital referrals of skin conditions. The diseases affect all age groups and are increasing in incidence. They have a profound effect on quality of life and are a common cause of occupational disease. Increasingly management of eczema will be provided within the community, perhaps within dedicated nurse-led disease clinics. There are many types of eczema, and correct diagnosis is crucial to identify curable variants, to avoid mismanagement and enable appropriate referral to hospital. This illustrated short textbook will aid GPs and dermatology nurses in hospital and the community to recognise eczema subtypes, institute appropriate management, and pick out possible cases of contact allergy which will allow appropriate referral for further diagnosis and management advice.