What is the treatment for generalized xerosis with atopic eczematous rash?

Question

Hi doctor,

My 11-year-old girl has rashes on the skin over her hands, legs, and a couple of them on the back, which worsens during cold weather. She has this issue for a few years, but it is aggravating now. I tried a skin cream Betnovate N (active ingredient-Betamethasone valerate); it seems to be effective but hesitant to put over a large area of her body. She is currently using Lubriderm (moisturizer) and coconut oil-infused aloe vera, which is applied one or two times a day. It seems to be dry patches or eczema. What could it be? Kindly suggest the treatment. Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. Yes, it looks like she has generalized xerosis with atopic eczematous rash. As you have mentioned, it usually worsens in winters due to increased dryness. The key is to use a good moisturizer and not let the skin dry at any point of time. Also, avoid trigger factors like harsh soaps, detergents, pet fur, and woolens (use cotton underneath). The steroids are the mainstay of treatment both in the topical and oral form but need to taper gradually as the disease controls. I suggest you take the following. Use Flutivate-E (Fluticasone propionate) cream for local application and Cetaphil restoraderm moisturizer. Apply Flutivate cream on the patches twice a day, followed by the moisturizer all over the body. Moisturizer can also be used on its own whenever you see the skin being dry. Try these for two weeks. Then follow up. Regards.