Red, Rough Skin in Children: Eczema or Allergies?

Redness of the skin?

Hello Dr.
Liang: My child was diagnosed with an allergic constitution through umbilical cord blood testing at birth.
Now, their hands and feet have red, rough patches that resemble eczema, but I'm not sure if this is due to overheating and needing to wear lighter clothing, or if we should seek medical attention.
The skin feels really rough, which is quite concerning.
Additionally, there is a lot of eye discharge; what should we do about that? Is this a sign of a health issue? Thank you.

KITTY, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/04/03

Dr. Liang Hongjian reply Pediatrics

KITTY appreciates your online consultation.
If your child’s cord blood test shows an IgE level higher than 0.9, it indicates an allergic constitution.
According to statistical reports, infants under the age of two commonly exhibit allergic reactions, particularly allergic gastroenteritis and atopic dermatitis.
Based on your description, it is very likely that your child has atopic dermatitis.
After treatment, it is common to observe keratinization and peeling, which may be accompanied by pigmentation changes.
The solution is to minimize exposure to allergens from now on, including environmental factors such as dust mites, pet dander, and secondhand smoke, as well as food allergens like milk, eggs, seafood, soy, peanuts, chocolate, citrus fruits, berries, and large seeds such as mango, longan, lychee, and durian.
Reducing exposure to allergens will help stabilize the allergic threshold, making allergic reactions less likely, which in turn may reduce the occurrence or severity of atopic dermatitis in your child.

Regarding the issue of keratinization, you may consult a dermatologist or our clinic for treatment with medications that can help restore the skin to its original condition.
Additionally, concerning the issue of eye discharge, it is commonly seen in newborns with tear duct obstruction.
If this has been ongoing for a long time or if it is a recent discovery, you should check for conjunctivitis or obstruction-related issues.
Generally, newborn tear duct obstruction improves by the age of two to three years, although a small number of cases may require probing of the tear duct.

Reply Date: 2002/04/03

More Info

When it comes to understanding the skin conditions in children, particularly red, rough skin that resembles eczema, it is crucial to consider various factors, including the child's medical history, environmental influences, and potential allergies. Given that your child has a history of allergic predisposition, it is reasonable to suspect that the skin issues may be related to eczema or atopic dermatitis, which is common in children with such a background.

Eczema is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, often appearing red and rough. It can be triggered by various factors, including heat, humidity, allergens, and irritants. In your case, if the skin condition worsens in hot weather or after sweating, it could indicate that heat and moisture are exacerbating the symptoms. It is essential to dress your child in breathable, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers like cotton to help minimize irritation and allow the skin to breathe.

The rough texture of the skin you described could also be a result of the skin barrier being compromised due to eczema. When the skin is inflamed, it loses moisture more rapidly, leading to dryness and roughness. Regular application of moisturizers is vital in managing eczema. Look for emollient-rich creams or ointments that are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin. Applying these moisturizers immediately after bathing can help lock in moisture and improve the skin's texture over time.

Regarding the eye discharge you mentioned, this could be a separate issue, possibly related to allergies or an infection. Allergies can cause conjunctivitis, leading to increased tearing and discharge. If your child is experiencing significant eye discharge, redness, or discomfort, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or an ophthalmologist for a thorough evaluation. They can determine whether the discharge is due to an allergic reaction or an infection, such as bacterial conjunctivitis, which may require specific treatment.

In summary, the red, rough skin on your child's hands and feet is likely related to eczema, especially given the allergic predisposition. Managing the condition involves keeping the skin moisturized, avoiding known triggers, and dressing your child appropriately for the weather. If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about the eye discharge, seeking medical advice from a dermatologist or pediatrician is essential. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your child's needs.

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