What describes nummular eczema?

Nummular eczema, also known as discoid eczema, is characterized by the presence of coin-shaped lesions on the skin. These round, often itchy patches can appear on various areas of the body and are typically well-defined, appearing as circular spots that may be crusty or scaly.

The terminology "nummular" itself translates to "coin-shaped," which underscores the distinctive appearance of the lesions associated with this condition. While other types of eczema might present with different characteristics, such as greasy patches or severe dryness leading to fissures, nummular eczema is specifically noted for its coin-like shape and the way these lesions manifest on the skin.

The other descriptions do not accurately represent nummular eczema: oily patches on the scalp suggest seborrheic dermatitis, crusty patches primarily on the face could relate to various conditions but not specifically to nummular eczema, and severe dryness with fissures aligns more closely with xerotic eczema or atopic dermatitis. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in dermatology for proper diagnosis and treatment.