How should I approach the management of a child with suspected eczema who has not responded to standard emollient therapy?

If a child with suspected eczema has not responded to standard emollient therapy, consider referring them for specialist dermatological advice to assess the diagnosis and management plan ¹.

Review the treatment approach, and if appropriate, escalate to other therapies such as topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or bandages, especially if the eczema is moderate to severe ¹.

Ensure that the child and carers are correctly applying emollients and consider switching to alternative emollients or application methods if irritation or acceptability issues persist ¹.

In cases of persistent or severe eczema, consider additional treatments like phototherapy or systemic therapy under specialist supervision ¹.