Nummular dermatitis is a form of dermatitis where coin-shaped lesions appear on the patient's skin. The condition is also known as nummular eczema, as well as discoid dermatitis and discoid eczema. It is a chronic medical condition with no known cure, although the symptoms may be treated.


Risk factors:

Nummular dermatitis is most common amongst elderly males. Family history of allergies, asthma, or atopic dermatitis are also frequently present in nummular dermatitis cases.


Causes:

The cause or causes of nummular dermatitis are unknown, however it is thought to be related to allergies, and the risk factors mentioned above may be considered.


Symptoms

The arms and legs are frequent locations of the hallmark coin-shaped skin lesions that accompany nummular dermatitis, although the patches may appear in other areas, especially when spreading toward the middle of the patient's body. General symptoms may include:

Crusty skin patches
Itching
Raw skin
Skin infection (secondary to the nummular dermatitis)
Skin inflammation
Skin lesions (coin-shaped patches and spots)
Skin redness
Skin scales


Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of nummular dermatosis is made by a doctor or medical professional. Examining the skin and performing a skin biopsy are two physical methods of diagnosis. The doctor may also ask about the patient's family's medical history.

Treatment:

As nummular dermatitis is a chronic condition, it does not have a known cure. Certain treatment methods may be used in order to relieve symptoms or avoid worsening them. Triggers should be avoided, including lanolin, wool, and any others. The skin should be kept moist, as dry skin may worsen the dermatitis. For this reason, frequent baths or showers are not recommended. Certain skin lotions, ointments, and other forms of moisterizers may be used in some cases to treat and avoid dry skin.

Patients with nummular dermatitis should watch for the presence of a secondary skin infection, which may develop in this condition. Additional professional medical assistance should be sought if such an infection appears.