Flexural eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis that causes itchy skin around the creases of joints, most frequently the elbows and knees.

The term “eczema” refers to a group of skin conditions that cause irritated and itchy skin. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis.

The phrase “flexural eczema” describes an eczema rash that occurs in certain locations on the body that may bend. So this type of eczema appears around the creases of your joints, most frequently your elbows and knees. It can also occur on your ankles, wrists, and neck.

Flexural eczema most commonly appears in late childhood and adulthood.

Read on to learn more about flexural eczema. This article looks at symptoms and causes, how doctors diagnose the condition, treatment options, and more.

Symptoms of flexural eczema typically develop in the joints, and can include:

The condition is chronic, which means you might notice that symptoms clear up for a while, only to return again later.

Eczema can affect a person at any age. In some more severe cases, it can continue into adulthood. How eczema appears can be different based on a person’s age.

Babies tend to have eczema on the face, scalp, and extensors, like the front of the knee or back of the elbow. But children between 2 years old and adolescence are more likely to develop the itchy rash around the creases in their elbows and knees.

Other areas of eczema that are common in this age group are the neck, wrists, and ankles.

Other symptoms and signs can include:

  • itchy, scaly patches
  • darkening or lightening of skin near the rashes
  • permanent goosebumps
  • thickened skin that develops from chronic scratching or rubbing

Learn about other types of eczema.

View the slideshow below for photos of flexural eczema.

The exact cause of eczema is unclear, but researchers have some ideas. According to the National Eczema Association, causes of eczema may include:

  • genetics, which may influence whether someone develops eczema as a child
  • exposure to environmental factors, also known as triggers, such as allergens or chemicals

People with eczema may have a mutation in the FLG gene that encodes a protein called filaggrin. Filaggrin helps create a protective barrier between the skin and the outside world. Without a sufficient barrier, the skin can become dry and prone to infection.

Children or adults with eczema may also have an overactive immune system. In this case, the immune system overreacts to a substance outside or inside the body, which results in inflammation.

A dermatologist may be able to diagnose flexural eczema by examining the skin and asking questions about symptoms. You or your child may require several appointments before receiving an accurate diagnosis.

In some cases, you may require a blood test or skin biopsy. This can help rule out other possible causes.

Eczema does not have a cure, but home remedies and medical treatments may help lessen the severity of symptoms and prevent flares for you or your child.

Medical treatments

Medical treatments can involve both topical and systemic medications. During a flare, you can apply topical medications, such as topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) and corticosteroids, directly to the affected skin.

Your doctor may also recommend phototherapy to treat eczema. It involves using light to help reduce the severity of an eczema flare and help heal the skin.

A doctor may also recommend oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and injectable biologics.

Some treatments may not be suitable for children. It’s important to follow the treatment plan that you create with the child’s doctor.

Home remedies

Some at-home treatments may also help improve flexural eczema symptoms. These include:

  • colloidal oatmeal baths
  • cool compresses
  • petroleum jelly or other moisturizing creams or ointments
  • finding distractions from the itch

Learn more about natural remedies for eczema.

Taking steps to avoid known triggers can help prevent flexural eczema flares.

Several treatment options can help prevent flares. For example, systematic medications can have a preventive effect on flexural eczema. Keeping your skin or the child’s skin moisturized can also help prevent new flares from occurring.

A medical professional can provide more advice on ways to help prevent flares or reduce their severity.

Research shows that most children will “outgrow” eczema by the time they are adults.

Several factors can make long-term eczema more likely, including:

  • severity of the condition, as more severe cases are more likely to continue into adulthood
  • time of onset, as eczema that appears earlier in life is more likely to last
  • living in an urban environment

Talk with the child’s doctor for more accurate information about their outlook based on their individual circumstances.

Learn about eczema in adulthood.

Flexural eczema is a type of atopic dermatitis that causes an itchy rash around the creases of joints, often on the elbows and knees.

Children may be more likely to develop flexural eczema, though it can occur in adults as well. If your child develops eczema, there is a chance that it will go away as they age. However, in some cases it can persist into adulthood.

Many treatment options for eczema exist, including topical and systemic medications and home remedies. Talk with your doctor about creating a treatment plan that is right for you or your child’s eczema.