DermHelpCentral

Eczema - Jane Brody

"The medical name for eczema is atopic dermatitis, which reflects the immunological nature of the condition. It is more common among children living in cities than those in rural areas. According to the so-called hygiene hypothesis, exposure to infectious agents early in life offers protection against allergic diseases. The more hygienic a child’s environment, the greater the risk."  This is an extract from a good article by Jane Brody who writes the Personal Health section for the NY Times.  I don't agree with everything, but it's a good starting point.

For full text see: Download Eczema NYT

A good guie to eczema for patients and parents is:
Your Guide to Eczema by Sarah Wakelin which can be ordered from ABE books for ~ $4 (includes shipping)

Acne (Backne)

This is a NY Times "Skin Deep" article about (b)acne in young women, for the most part.  It's kind of "fluffy" but there is some useful information.  For instance: "Clearasil Ultra On-the-Go Rapid Action wipes ($4.49) with 2 percent salicylic acid" are inexpensive and probably as good a products that cost many times more.

See:  "Adjusting the Routine to Avoid Acne."

 

Chondrodermatitis

Chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica helicis (CNH) is a painful inflammatory condition affecting the ear.

CNH is most often seen in middle-aged or elderly men but may also affect women and younger adults. It results in a benign tender lump in the cartilaginous portion of the ear. The helix (thus helicis) is the top of the ear. Strictly speaking the condition should be called chondrodermatitis nodularis chronica antehelicis when it affects the inner rim of cartilage. For more information see DermNet.

Initial treatment is to avoid pressure or trauma to the affected are with a CNH ear protector.  You can make one yourself or purchase one for ~ $23 from a surgical supply house.

The affected area may only be a few millimetres wide, but to lie on it causes exquisite discomfort. There is often a tiny central core which may discharge a small amount of scaly material. It may persist for months or sometimes years, and may be confused with a skin cancer.

For more information click on CNH Ear Protector Download CNH Ear Protector

Also see: CNH Conservative Approach.