Discoid eczema is a persistent skin condition. This chronic skin condition is sometimes called nummular eczematous dermatitis, and nummular eczema. The exact cause of discoid eczema is unknown. Sometimes, an allergic reaction to medication triggers discoid eczema. Discoid eczema may be caused by a bacterial infection that has made the skin prone to allergic reactions.

This chronic skin condition is more prevalent in men than in women. Men aged fifty-five to sixty-five are most commonly affected. Outbreaks of discoid eczema may be treated and clear up, but there is no cure. An individual who has had discoid eczema is prone to future outbreaks of discoid eczema.

The characteristic symptom of discoid eczema is the formation of coin-shaped patches of an itchy rash. The coin-shaped rashes usually start as tiny red dots and lesions that look like small blisters. The round rashes that develop are typically two to ten centimeters in diameter. The rash patches may develop a clear center. The rashes with clear centers often look like ringworm.

Avoiding wool, harsh soaps, and bathing more frequently than daily, especially with hot water can help with the treatment of current outbreaks and help prevent future outbreaks of discoid eczema. The individual prone to discoid eczema should avoid having dry, irritated skin which could trigger an outbreak. Applying liberal amounts of moisturizer should be part of a daily routine for people with nummular eczema.

There is no cure for discoid eczema or any type of eczema. Discoid eczema can be worse during the winter. Low humidity and dry skin can make someone prone to outbreaks of discoid eczema. The most common parts of the body affected by discoid eczema are the torso, legs, arms, and hands. Future discoid eczema rashes usually occur in the same area as previous rashes.

Discoid eczema is treated with prescription strength cortisone cream. If treated early, an outbreak may be able to be suppressed with the use of prescription strength cortisone cream. Discoid eczema treatment includes keeping the rash moisturized. Oral or injected corticosteroids, ultraviolet light treatments, oral antibiotics, and antihistamine medication may be part of the discoid eczema treatment. The antibiotics help fight any infection from developing since the rash can be susceptible to infection.

Prescription strength cortisone cream should only be applied once a day unless a doctor prescribes more frequent use and should not be used on the groin, the armpits, face, or rectal area. For outbreaks that have been resistant to treatment, coal tar may be added to the ointment. A doctor or dermatologist may recommend regular use of special moisturizers or oil additives to baths to help prevent future outbreaks of discoid eczema.