Variation in Eczema

The erythematous variety is characterized simply by a red and congested patch of varying extent, and is not accompanied with vesicles, pustules, papules, of the other lesions of the disease.

Cases of eczema vary in respect to the grade of inflammation present. In one it may exhibit great activity and be accompanied with decided heat, high color, and other evidences of marked inflammatory  action,  in either the first or second stages or in both; and this activity may continue for an indefinite period, and until the case prepares to enter the third stage. On the other hand, the natural color may be but slightly altered, the increase of local heat be almost inappreciable, and the general process partake of a subacute character from the beginning. In other cases, again, an eruption which is subacute may at any stage of its progress suddenly assume an acute phase, or there may be frequent alternations of activity and comparative quietude. This is a very striking feature of eczema, and one that should always be borne in mind. A case may be progressing nicely under treatment, and with the prospect of early recovery, when suddenly the trouble may relapse into its previous active state, and often apparently without sufficient provocation.