Chronic Dry Eczema with Marked Emotional Suppression -A Case Report

Abstract

Chronic eczema is a recurrent inflammatory skin condition characterized by dryness, itching, scaling and, in some patients, fissuring of the skin. This case describes a patient presenting with longstanding dry eczema involving the legs, hands and thighs, with marked aggravation during winter and recurrent cracking of the affected skin. The patient had previously used conventional topical treatment, including Propisalic lotion, and had also undergone Ayurvedic treatment.

The case was notable for associated digestive complaints, including indigestion and abdominal heaviness, along with a distinct mental-emotional profile characterized by excessive thinking, anxiety, internalization of emotions, suppression of anger, social withdrawal and a strong desire for perfection. A positive family history of similar skin complaints was reported in the mother, brother and sister. The patient also had a history of hypertension and was receiving antihypertensive medication.

The case highlights the importance of considering the patient's constitutional characteristics, mental-emotional state, physical generals, family history and maintaining factors while assessing a chronic recurrent dermatological condition.