Eczema and contact dermatitis

Abstract

The skin forms the largest organ of the body, accounting for about 16% of a person’s weight. It performs many roles, such as controlling internal body temperature (core temperature), preventing harmful bacteria, viruses and chemicals from entering the body, and aiding the manufacture of vitamin D from sunlight. There is great importance attached to the appearance of skin, so medical conditions affecting the skin not only affect our state of well-being, but also the way we interact with each other which, in turn, leads to other farreaching consequences, such as holding down jobs and maintaining relationships.