The word "Eczema" has been derived from the Greek word "ekzema" meaning eruptions. It is also termed Dermatitis which means inflammation of skin.
Eczema has many causes and forms but the common manifestations across all types include redness, itching and swelling of the involved area of skin.
It is neither life-threatening nor contagious, but it is a discomfort and can embarrass a person due to its disagreeable appearance.
The causes can range from allergies to various substances, exposure to known irritants and even stress, either physical or emotional. Babies generally present with "Diaper Dermatitis", i.e. Eczema on the area covered by the diaper because of the irritant effect of urine and stool.
