This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for intrinsic eczema.
What Is Intrinsic Eczema?
Atopic dermatitis is often marked by high levels of a specific antibody known as immunoglobulin E (IgE). Antibodies are specialized proteins created by the immune system to help fight off pathogens or other foreign substances in the body.
People with atopic dermatitis may also have other types of atopic conditions, such as allergies, which are conditions that arise because of immune system oversensitivity.
In people with intrinsic eczema, the levels of IgE are typically normal and there are no other atopic conditions present.
Research has examined the immune system’s role in intrinsic eczema and has found that although there is no connection to higher levels of IgE, other immune activations may take place that could play a role. These activations happen to specific cells known as T cells, which are cells that activate other immune cells to fight off infections and other pathogens.
Intrinsic Eczema Causes
While researchers have yet to find a direct cause of intrinsic eczema, there is evidence to support that several factors may come into play in regard to its development. These factors include:
Though the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic atopic dermatitis is often made by professionals, it remains controversial.
Genetic mutationsThe overactivity of the immune systemEnvironmental factors such as dry weather or stress
Intrinsic Eczema Symptoms
The symptoms of intrinsic eczema are the same as those with extrinsic eczema. They include:
Intense itchinessPainful and sore skinDifficulty sleepingRashes that bleed or ooze liquid due to excessive scratchingDry skinDiscolored skinThickening and hardening of the skin because of scratching
Intrinsic Eczema Diagnosis
Typically, a physical examination is all that’s needed to diagnose eczema. Your healthcare provider will collect your symptoms and examine the affected area to determine if it’s eczema or something else. They may also ask if anyone in your family has eczema.
If they are looking to diagnose between intrinsic and extrinsic, your healthcare provider will likely order tests to check your IgE levels. This will help them determine the subtype of your eczema.
In some cases, a skin biopsy, which removes a sample of tissue to be examined in a lab, may be performed to determine this, but a blood test is often used to determine levels of IgE.
Intrinsic Eczema Treatment
While there is no cure for intrinsic eczema, there are treatment options that can help lessen the itch and improve the skin’s overall health. Treatment options for intrinsic eczema include:
Skin moisturizers Topical corticosteroids to help reduce inflammation in the skin and reduce itchiness Medications that suppress the immune system, such as calcineurin inhibitors Biologics, which are genetically engineered proteins that are artificially manufactured as medications to help reduce inflammation
Summary
Intrinsic eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis that is characterized by its underlying physiological mechanism, or lack thereof. In people with eczema, elevated levels of a specific antibody known as IgE typically are present. However, intrinsic eczema lacks those high levels, making it its own subtype. Additionally, some research supports that immune system overreaction in different immune cells may take place in intrinsic eczema.
Even though intrinsic and extrinsic have different IgE levels, they share the same symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. For people with both types, improving the skin barrier can help greatly when it comes to symptom relief.
A Word From Verywell
Coping with eczema, whether intrinsic or extrinsic, can be difficult. This is because there is no cure, and some treatment options don’t work for everyone. It’s important to remember that eczema can be managed with the right type of treatment and skin care.
When looking to keep your eczema at bay, it’s important that you speak to your healthcare provider. They will be able to diagnose your subtype and help you find the best treatment option for your specific case.
Improve your skin barrier. Keep your skin moisturized at all times. Manage stress levels. Avoid scented or harsh soaps or detergents. Wear clothing that doesn’t cause itchiness of the skin. Avoid dry climates if possible.
