Nummular Eczema

Nummular means "coin shaped" or round. Nummular eczema appears in round-shaped skin patches and is a chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin condition. This form of eczema occurs most often in young adults or in the elderly. A seasonal variation also occurs with increased frequency noted in fall and winter when skin tends to be drier.

Physical Exam

Nummular eczema presents as closely grouped, small vesicles and papules that form round, coin-shaped skin lesions which may show scaling and crusting. The area is itchy, and scratching or rubbing may cause thickened skin. Lesions are typically distributed randomly, often in clusters on the lower legs and trunk.

Treatment

• Moisturizers
• Topical corticosteroids
• Topical coal tar preparations
• Antibiotics for secondary skin infection
• Antihistamines for itching
• Henry Ford Phototherapy