Infantile eczema

Reviewed by Dr Stuart Crisp, paediatric specialist registrar and Professor James Ferguson, consultant dermatologist

How can infantile eczema be treated and what medication is used?
The aim of the treatment is to try and avoid the triggers that start the rash and to keep the skin moisturised to help soothe the itching and the inflammation. For this reason, a key aspect is the use of emollients (skin softeners and soothers), particularly as substitutes for soap. In this way, the illness can sometimes be controlled.

Eczema that can't be controlled with just moisturisers will normally need treatment with a steroid cream. While some mild steroid creams can be bought from pharmacies, they are not licensed to be used on children or on the face without first consulting your doctor.

Steroid creams are prescribed by your doctor to reduce the skin inflammation. They are safe when used correctly. The stronger the cream and the longer it is used, the higher the small risk of side effects. These should be discussed with your GP.

In severe cases, the help of a dermatologist (skin expert) may be needed. Antibacterials - either by mouth or as a cream - are often needed when flare-ups are complicated by infections.

An alternative treatment that may be considered is a relatively new cream called Elidel . This is a weak immunomodulatory drug, which means it modulates or 'changes' the body's immune system in some way. It reduces inflammation, but is not a steroid. It can be used to treat flare-ups of mild to moderate eczema in children aged two years and over.

Treatment of infantile eczema should always take place under your doctor's close supervision. In severe cases, or if your child develops a very bad skin infection, they might need to be treated at a skin clinic.

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