Atopic dermatitis or eczema : Wet wraps!!
Wet wraps therapy is used to treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis or eczema. Wet wraps are extremely helpful in reducing and healing the atopic dermatitis or eczema skin in a very short time.
How does wet wraps work for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
Wet wraps have a cooling effect on the skin, it reduces inflammation and also reduces itching in children with atopic dermatitis or eczema. Wet wraps help remove scales and increase penetration of topical medications in the outer layer of the skin in children with atopic dermatitis or eczema. This leads to rapid healing of atopic dermatitis or eczema lesions.
When to use wet wraps for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
Wet wraps are applied in children with difficult to manage moderate to severe atopic dermatitis or eczema. Wet wraps are used only as an acute intervention to lead to rapid healing of the skin in atopic dermatitis or eczema.
When not to use wet wraps for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
Wet wraps are not indicated for long term use in children with atopic dermatitis or eczema. Wet wraps should never be applied on an infected atopic dermatitis or eczema skin.
How to use wet wraps for children with atopic dermatitis or eczema?
When doing wet dressings, the first layer is wet and the second layer is dry, which helps keep the moisture in.
After bath the skin is dried and the topical steroid is applied. The affected areas are covered with wet clothing followed by a layer of dry clothing. The details are shown in the accompanying figure.
What are the complications of Wet wraps used for atopic dermatitis or eczema?
Wet wraps despite being very effective can be a bit discomforting to the child. Few children can have chills leading to poor acceptance. Prolonged use of wet wraps can also lead to folliculitis, impetigo, pseudomonas and herpes infection.
Wet wraps should always be used under proper medical supervision!
