Eczema

Eczema is more than just itchy skin. This condition can cause sleep issues, emotional stress and skin infections. Moderate to severe eczema in babies may also raise the risk of food allergies.

If you or your child has eczema, you deserve expert care and evidence-based therapies. At Henry Ford Health, our specialists have the expertise you need to achieve long-term control and relief.

Why choose Henry Ford Health for eczema care?

Our doctors specialize in treating eczema in infants, children and adults. Highlights of our care include:

• Innovative approach: We offer a specialized clinic for children with severe eczema who require advanced care. Leading dermatologists and allergist/immunologists collaborate in our clinic to cover all your child’s needs in one appointment.
• Early intervention: Treating eczema early in children may help prevent them from developing food allergies. Our team prescribes the most effective skin medications and early introduction guidelines during our severe eczema clinic to help avoid these issues.
• Customized therapy: Although many eczema medications are available, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. We carefully determine the type of medication and dosage that will help you achieve the best results.
• Compassionate support: Our doctors understand that eczema can be overwhelming, but we empower you with the most effective ways to manage it. Our team guides you through effective skin care routines, medication instructions and how to safely and practically introduce foods to infants with eczema.

How we diagnose eczema

We often diagnose eczema by performing a physical exam and talking with you about your symptoms and medical history. We provide a comprehensive diagnosis so you have a clear path forward.

Eczema treatments we provide

Eczema affects everyone differently, so you need a team that can determine the best therapies for you. Treatments we offer include:

Allergen immunotherapy

Eczema and allergies are closely connected, and immunotherapy (allergy shots) can help provide relief for many children. We offer the latest immunotherapy options to effectively address both conditions for the best possible results.

Our allergists are among the few in the area to offer cluster immunotherapy. This treatment provides allergy relief in as little as eight weeks, rather than the standard six months. We also offer sublingual immunotherapy (tablets you place under your tongue) as an alternative to allergy shots. You take these tablets at home.

Topical medications

Topical medications are creams, gels or ointments you apply to your skin. We prescribe science-backed options, including corticosteroids and topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). These medications address the inflammation that causes eczema symptoms. We work with you to find the right type and dosage that best meets your needs.

Systemic medications

If topical medications alone aren’t effective enough, systemic medications that circulate through your body, such as pills and injections (shots), may be helpful. These medications stop inflammation throughout your body, which can improve eczema symptoms. We carefully consider what type of medication will be most effective for you, while minimizing side effects. Our systemic medications include:

• Biologics (monoclonal antibodies), which stop a specific part of your immune system from reacting without suppressing your overall immune response
• Corticosteroids, which calm inflammation throughout your body
• Immunosuppressants, which target your immune system as a whole and reduce your overall immune response
• JAK inhibitors, which stop your body from producing certain chemicals that cause inflammation