Dr. MUDoç. Dr. Mehmet Ünal

Allergy And Eczema Types

What Are Allergy And Eczema?

Allergy and eczema are chronic skin diseases characterized by dryness, itching, redness, and scaling of the skin. These conditions not only cause aesthetic problems but also significantly affect the quality of life. Allergy and eczema can occur in all age groups, and early diagnosis and treatment are important. In our clinic, modern and effective treatment methods are used for these conditions.

Types Of Eczema And Their Characteristics

Eczema is classified into various types depending on causes and symptoms:

Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema)

  • The most common type of eczema: Begins in childhood
  • Genetic predisposition: Family history of allergic diseases
  • Symptoms: Redness, itching, dryness, scaling
  • Localization: Face, neck, elbow and knee folds
  • Flares: Triggered by stress, allergens, and environmental factors

Contact Dermatitis

  • Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Caused by contact with chemicals
  • Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Allergic reaction
  • Symptoms: Redness, swelling, itching, blisters
  • Triggers: Nickel, chromium, cosmetic products, detergents
  • Localization: On contact areas

Seborrheic Dermatitis

  • Oily skin areas: Scalp, face, chest
  • Symptoms: Yellowish crusts, flaking, redness
  • Causes: Yeast fungi, sebum production, stress
  • Seasonal changes: Increase in winter

Nummular Eczema

  • Coin-shaped lesions: Round or oval
  • Symptoms: Itchy, red, scaly lesions
  • Localization: Legs, arms, trunk
  • Chronic course: May require long-term treatment

Dyshidrotic Eczema

  • On hands and feet: Palms and soles
  • Symptoms: Fluid-filled blisters, itching, scaling
  • Triggers: Stress, humidity, allergens
  • Seasonal feature: Increases in summer

Types And Causes Of Allergies

Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to substances that are normally harmless:

Food Allergies

  • Dairy products: Cow's milk, cheese, yogurt
  • Eggs: Especially egg whites
  • Nuts: Hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds
  • Seafood: Fish, shrimp, mussels
  • Gluten: Wheat, barley, rye

Environmental Allergies

  • Pollen allergy: Tree, grass, weed pollens
  • House dust mites: Dust, carpets, pillows
  • Animal allergies: Cat, dog, bird feathers
  • Mold allergy: Fungi growing in humid environments

Chemical Allergies

  • Cosmetic products: Perfume, preservatives
  • Detergents: Laundry and dishwashing detergents
  • Metals: Nickel, chromium, cobalt
  • Latex: Gloves, balloons, medical supplies

Symptoms Of Allergy And Eczema

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the disease:

Skin Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation: Red areas on the skin
  • Itching: From mild to severe
  • Dryness and flaking: Scaling on the skin surface
  • Crusting: Formation of crusts on inflamed areas
  • Cracks: Especially on dry skin

Systemic Symptoms

  • Runny nose and sneezing: Respiratory allergies
  • Itchy, red eyes: Conjunctivitis
  • Shortness of breath: Asthma symptoms
  • Nausea and vomiting: Food allergies
  • Headache: Sinus congestion

Complications

  • Secondary infections: Bacterial and viral
  • Lichenification: Thickening of the skin
  • Pigmentation changes: Formation of spots
  • Sleep disturbances: Due to itching
  • Psychological effects: Depression, anxiety

Diagnosis Of Allergy And Eczema

Diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation process:

Clinical Examination

  • Detailed examination of lesions
  • Determining the spread pattern and boundaries
  • Assessment of itching severity
  • Overall skin condition check

Allergy Tests

  • Prick Test: Skin-based allergen test
  • Patch Test: Detection of contact allergies
  • Blood Tests: IgE level and specific allergens
  • Elimination Test: For food allergies

Laboratory Tests

  • Complete blood count
  • Eosinophil count
  • CRP and sedimentation
  • Biopsy if necessary

Modern Allergy And Eczema Treatment Methods

In our clinic, we use the most up-to-date and effective treatment methods. The choice of treatment depends on the type, severity, and the patient's condition.

Topical Treatments

In mild and moderate cases, topical treatments provide effective results:

Moisturizers

  • Petrolatum-based: Intense moisturizing
  • Urea-based: Keratolytic effect
  • Ceramide-containing: Strengthens the skin barrier
  • Hyaluronic acid: Rapid hydration

Corticosteroids

  • Mild: Hydrocortisone 1%
  • Moderate: Betamethasone, mometasone
  • Severe: Clobetasol, halobetasol
  • Application: 1-2 times daily

Calcineurin Inhibitors

  • Tacrolimus: 0.03% and 0.1% concentrations
  • Pimecrolimus: 1% cream
  • Effect: Reduces inflammation
  • Advantage: Safe for long-term use

Systemic Treatments

In moderate to severe cases, systemic treatments may be required:

Antihistamines

  • First Generation: Diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine
  • Second Generation: Cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine
  • Effect: Reduces itching and allergic symptoms
  • Usage: Daily or as needed

Immunomodulators

  • Cyclosporine: Severe atopic dermatitis
  • Methotrexate: Chronic eczema
  • Azathioprine: Alternative therapy
  • Monitoring: Regular laboratory checks

Biological Treatments

  • Dupilumab: IL-4 and IL-13 inhibitor
  • Tralokinumab: IL-13 inhibitor
  • Nemolizumab: IL-31 inhibitor
  • Application: By injection

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

In moderate to severe cases, phototherapy can be an effective treatment option:

UVB Therapy

  • Narrowband UVB: The most effective UVB therapy
  • Broadband UVB: Traditional UVB therapy
  • Application: 2-3 times weekly
  • Duration: 6-12 weeks

PUVA Therapy

  • Psoralen + UVA: Combined therapy
  • Effect: Strong immunosuppression
  • Application: 2-3 times weekly
  • Side effects: Nausea, sunburn

Combined Treatment Approach

In our clinic, we combine different methods to achieve the best results:

  • Topical + Systemic treatment
  • Phototherapy + Medical treatment
  • Biological + Supportive treatment
  • Lifestyle changes + Medical treatment

Post-Treatment Care

Regular care after allergy and eczema treatment is very important:

Skin Care

  • Daily use of moisturizers
  • Gentle cleansers
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Regular skin check-ups

Preventive Measures

  • Avoiding allergens
  • Choosing appropriate clothing
  • Being cautious of environmental factors
  • Stress management

Prevention Of Allergy And Eczema

Important measures to prevent allergy and eczema:

Environmental Control

  • Reducing dust mites
  • Minimizing pollen exposure
  • Precautions for animal allergies
  • Humidity control

Lifestyle Changes

  • Healthy nutrition
  • Regular exercise
  • Adequate sleep
  • Stress management

Personal Hygiene

  • Regular hand washing
  • Appropriate skin care
  • Protection from chemicals
  • Regular medical check-ups

Treatment Outcomes

Treatment results usually appear over time:

Topical Treatments

  • 1-2 weeks of treatment
  • 70-80% success rate
  • Rapid improvement
  • Requires regular use

Systemic Treatments

  • 2-4 weeks of treatment
  • 80-90% success rate
  • Moderate improvement speed
  • Monitoring side effects is important

Phototherapy

  • 6-12 weeks of treatment
  • 75-85% success rate
  • Slow but lasting improvement
  • Long-term results

Why Choose Our Clinic?

In our clinic, we prepare personalized treatment plans using the most advanced methods and our team of expert dermatologists:

  • Expert Team: Experienced dermatologists specialized in allergy and eczema
  • Modern Technologies: Latest diagnostic and treatment systems
  • Comprehensive Diagnosis: Detailed allergy tests and laboratory evaluation
  • Personalized Approach: Individual treatment plan for each patient
  • Combined Therapy: Integration of different methods
  • Regular Follow-up: Comprehensive post-treatment care

Conclusion

Allergy and eczema can be successfully managed with proper diagnosis and treatment. In our clinic, we prepare the most suitable treatment plan for you, helping to relieve itching, redness, and quality-of-life issues with effective and lasting results. With modern treatment methods and our personalized approach, we support and improve your skin health.