Nummular Eczema
Pronunciation: NUM-yoo-lar EK-zuh-muh
A chronic dermatitis characterised by coin-shaped, well-demarcated plaques of eczematous skin, typically on the limbs.
Full Definition
Nummular eczema (also called discoid eczema in British usage) presents as discrete, circular or oval pruritic plaques that may weep, crust, or scale. The term 'nummular' derives from the Latin for coin. In editorial contexts, the American 'nummular eczema' and British 'discoid eczema' refer to the same condition; editors must apply the preferred regional term consistently. It should not be confused with ringworm (tinea corporis), which it can mimic morphologically. Documentation typically appears in dermatology outpatient letters, treatment protocols, and patient information leaflets.
Usage
Usage note: Regional variant: 'discoid eczema' is preferred in British clinical documentation; 'nummular eczema' in North American usage. Do not abbreviate to 'numm. eczema' in formal reports.
In Context
- "The outpatient letter described coin-shaped lesions consistent with nummular eczema on both forearms." — Outpatient clinic letter
- "Copy editors working on US dermatology manuscripts should prefer 'nummular eczema' over 'discoid eczema'." — Style guide note