Eczema and Allergy in Children
Specialist assessment of allergic triggers in childhood eczema, and comprehensive management for children across Belfast and Northern Ireland.
Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is the most common chronic skin condition in children, affecting up to 20% of children in the UK. It is characterised by dry, itchy, inflamed skin and is closely linked to the atopic march — the tendency for children with eczema to develop food allergy, asthma and hay fever.
Dr Mugilan Anandarajan is a Consultant Paediatrician with a special interest in allergy, eczema and respiratory conditions. He provides specialist assessment of allergic triggers in childhood eczema and comprehensive management at Kingsbridge Private Hospital and Ulster Independent Clinic in Belfast.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Dry, itchy, inflamed skin — often on the face, neck, hands, and inside of elbows and knees
Periods of worsening with intense itch, redness, weeping or crusting
Disrupted sleep due to itching, affecting the whole family
Skin barrier disruption increases risk of bacterial (Staph aureus) and viral (eczema herpeticum) infections
Children with eczema are at higher risk of developing food allergy, asthma and hay fever
When to Seek Specialist Assessment
- Eczema starts in the first year of life and is moderate to severe
- Eczema is difficult to control despite good topical treatment
- There is a clear relationship between eating a food and eczema flares
- There are other allergic symptoms such as immediate reactions or gut symptoms
- You suspect a food or environmental allergen is triggering flares
- Your child's eczema is associated with respiratory symptoms (wheeze, runny nose)
Allergy Testing Methods
Skin Prick Testing
Tests for IgE-mediated allergy to common food allergens (milk, egg, peanut, wheat, soy) and environmental allergens (house dust mite, grass pollen, pet dander).
Specific IgE Blood Testing
Measures allergy antibodies to food and environmental allergens. Particularly useful when skin prick testing is not possible due to extensive eczema.
Patch Testing
For suspected contact allergic dermatitis — identifies delayed allergic reactions to substances that come into contact with the skin.
Management & Treatment Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Not all eczema is driven by allergy, and routine allergy testing is not recommended for all children with eczema. Dr Anandarajan will take a detailed history to determine whether allergy testing is appropriate for your child and provide a personalised management plan.