Inflammation

There is no eczema without having inflammation. This is likely due to the immunological response. White blood cells called lymphocytes are the main ones involved in this process. Inflammation produces redness on the skin. In severe cases it may be generalized so that all the skin is involved. The redness is associated with swelling of the upper part of the skin in both the epidermis and the upper dermis.

Inflammation produces factors in the skin that encourage itching. The inflammation will usually shows up as small red papules or bumps in the skin. These tops of these bumps are frequently scratched off (excoriated). The small bumps frequently join up to form large patches or plaques of thickened skin.

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