Diagnosing Eczema

Effective treatment requires a correct diagnosis; however, it is not always easy to distinguish one type of eczema from another or from similar skin conditions. Dermatologists have the medical training and experience needed to determine if eczema is present — and if present, which type. To diagnose eczema, dermatologists examine the skin and ask about:
When the skin condition first appeared
Signs and symptoms, such as long-term pruritus (itching) or recurring dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
Certain circumstances that may aggravate the condition, such as excessively dry air or emotional stress
Family medical history, including questions about close blood relatives who have asthma, hay fever, or eczema
Personal medical history