International Research Journal of Education and Technology

                        Eczema, or dermatitis, encompasses a group of chronic inflammatory skin conditions marked by intense pruritus, xerosis, erythema, and episodic flares that significantly impair patient quality of life. Among its subtypes, atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most prevalent, driven by a multifactorial interplay of genetic susceptibility, epidermal barrier dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and environmental triggers. Mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) and alterations in ceramide composition disrupt skin barrier integrity, leading to increased trans epidermal water loss and heightened sensitivity to irritants and allergens. Recent advances highlight the critical role of the skin microbiome, particularly Staphylococcus aureus colonization, in promoting inflammation and exacerbating disease severity. Therapeutic strategies have progressed from conventional topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and emollients to advanced modalities including biologics (e.g., dupilumab, tralokinumab), Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and innovations such as microbiome-based therapies and barrier-repair formulations. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in long-term disease control, prevention of flares, and addressing psychological and socioeconomic burdens. This review synthesizes current insights into the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic developments, and evolving treatment landscape of eczema, emphasizing the importance of integrated patient-centered care and ongoing research to bridge existing gaps in therapeutic outcomes. Further, growing evidence suggests that lifestyle factors and environmental exposures play an increasingly important role in eczema onset and severity. Urbanization, pollution, climate variability, reduced microbial exposure, and modern hygiene practices have been linked to rising global disease prevalence, particularly in children. Dietary influences, such as low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D deficiency, and early-life food sensitization, have also been investigated for their association with eczema risk. Psychosocial stress is now recognized as a significant trigger capable of worsening inflammatory pathways and impairing treatment adherence.

KEY WORDS

Eczema , dermatitis , atopic dermatitis, epidermal barrier dysfunction , filagrin mutation , staphylococcus aureus , environmental triggers , patient education, holistic management ,  genetic environmental interactions , emollient therapy.