What Is the Difference Between Heat Rash and Eczema?
Disease description:
Recently, I developed numerous small, red, itchy bumps on my body. Initially, I thought it was eczema, but after visiting the hospital for evaluation, I was diagnosed with miliaria (heat rash). What are the differences between miliaria and eczema?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Yong
Miliaria (heat rash) results from obstruction of the sweat ducts, whereas eczema has multiple, often variable causes. Miliaria occurs predominantly in summer and is most common in children; in contrast, eczema is not seasonal and can occur at any time of year, affecting individuals of all ages and both sexes. Miliaria typically appears on the neck, chest, back, antecubital fossae, and popliteal fossae; in infants and young children, it may also develop on the scalp and forehead—areas prone to excessive sweating. Eczema is a polymorphic, inflammatory dermatosis characterized by a tendency toward exudation and intense pruritus, with a high propensity for recurrence. Clinically, acute eczema manifests as ill-defined erythematous patches, papules, vesicles, erosions, and exudation. Chronic eczema is characterized by skin thickening (lichenification), excoriations, induration, hyperkeratosis, and sometimes hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body.
