Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that initially develops most frequently in infants, toddlers and children. There are many different forms of eczema, the most common of which is called atopic dermatitis. Approximately 10 percent of children develop eczema, according to KidsHealth.org, a children's health information website established by the Nemours Foundation. Talk with your pediatrician if you notice any eczema symptoms in your toddler.
Itching
The hallmark symptom that distinguishes eczema from other types of skin rashes is intense itching, explains the Eczema Association of Australasia. Your toddler may frequently scratch at her skin or complain that her skin itches. Scratching can worsen skin rash symptoms, which may cause your toddler to experience more frequent or severe itching sensations. Your toddler can also be at an increased risk of developing a skin infection due to skin damage caused by scratching. Certain allergens or environmental factors, such as dust or low humidity, may irritate or dry out your toddler's skin and can worsen his eczema symptoms.
Thick or Discolored Skin Patches
If your toddler has eczema, he will have thick patches of skin across his body. These dry, scaly skin lesions can appear red, brown or gray in color, and most frequently develop before the fifth birthday. The affected skin can appear flaky or irritated, and may be tender or itchy. Typically, these skin patches appear on the face or scalp, explains KidsHealth.org, but the toddler may also develop irritated patches of skin behind his knees or on his ankles or chest. You may find it helpful to track your toddler's symptoms to determine if certain allergens, such as a specific cleanser or detergent, exacerbate his symptoms.
Bumpy Skin Lesions
Some toddlers with eczema will develop skin lesions that will appear rough and bumpy, warns the Mayo Clinic. Your toddler may pick or scratch at these skin patches, causing them to leak pus or excess fluid. As these bumpy skin lesions begin to heal, a rough, yellowish crust can form over the affected skin region. These eczema symptoms in toddlers may subside for brief periods of time, but can persist even into adulthood.
Hair Loss
If your toddler has eczema skin lesions on her scalp or near her eyes, she may rub or scratch at the affected site. As a result, doctors at the Mayo Clinic warn that certain patients may experience temporary, patchy hair loss--including thinned eyebrows or eyelashes--as a symptom of eczema.
