Open wounds or cracked skin allow viruses and bacteria to enter the skin, which can lead to infection.
You will also learn how to prevent complications from these infections.
Verywell / Laura Porter
What Is Infected Eczema?
Verywell / Laura Porter
An eczema rash is also typically very itchy, which will cause you to scratch your skin.
The most common form of bacterial infection is from staphylococcus bacteria, which causes astaph infection.
Another common form of eczema infection is with the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
The two main types of infected eczema are infection with staph and infection with the herpes simplex virus.
It results in a widespread red rash with fluid-filled blisters and occurs most commonly in children with atopic dermatitis.
The red rash with fluid-filled blisters most commonly affects the face, neck, and upper torso.
What Does Eczema Look Like When It’s Infected?
If severe complications are present, systemic intravenous antiviral medication and hospitalization may be required.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious complications.
Summary
Eczema causes dry and itchy skin, which can make you want to scratch it.
However, scratching it will break your skin and increase the risk of infections.
If your eczema ain’t answering to its usual treatment, you may have infected eczema.
Its important to seek help from your doctor if you have these signs.
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Liaw FY, Huang CF, Hsueh JT, Chiang CP.Eczema herpeticum: a medical emergency.Can Fam Physician.
2012;58(12):1358-1361.
National Eczema Society.Skin infections and eczema.
