Nummular eczema (coin-shaped patches)

Overview

Nummular eczema makes coin-shaped, very itchy patches, often on the legs, arms, or trunk.

It's often worse in dry winter air and can crust or ooze.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Coin-shaped itchy patches

Less common

• Oozing
• Crusting

Look up a symptom: Red spot, bump, or patch on the skin

When to get medical care

Causes

Dry skin.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Exam.

Treatment

Moisturize.

Self-care

• Moisturize: apply a thick cream or ointment twice a day
• Take short, lukewarm showers
• Use fragrance-free soap
• Use a humidifier

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Moisturize daily
• Avoid wool

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Living with it

• Moisturize at least twice a day.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free products.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.
• National Eczema Association: Tips, product guide, and community for eczema.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older men: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Manageable.

Usually controlled with treatment, though it can come back.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Could this be a fungal infection?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Nummular eczema (coin-shaped patches)