Nummular Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Nummular Eczema?
A dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin conditions, usually treats nummular eczema. A primary care doctor can often tell what it is by looking at your skin. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is nummular eczema?
Nummular eczema is a type of dermatitis, which means skin inflammation. It causes itchy, coin-shaped spots or patches on the skin. The word nummular is Latin for resembling coins. It is also called discoid eczema.
It is a long-term (chronic) condition. Treatment and avoiding irritants can help reduce symptoms. It is not contagious. You cannot catch it or give it to anyone.
Symptoms
Nummular eczema can cause these signs:
- Round or oval spots that are red, dry, itchy, and scaly. They often appear on the arms and legs.
- Spots that may spread to the middle of the body.
- Spots that ooze and become crusty.
- A small group of spots or bumps first, which then join up into larger patches.
- Dry skin between the patches.
- Itching that is often worse at night.
On lighter skin, the patches are pink or red. On darker skin, they can be dark brown or paler than the skin around them. Sometimes the skin stays discolored after the patches clear.
Patches can get infected. Signs of infection include a lot of oozing, a yellow crust, and skin that is hot, swollen, and tender or painful. Feeling sick, hot, cold, or shivery can also be a sign.
Causes and who gets it
The cause of nummular eczema is unknown. Many people have a personal or family history of allergies, asthma, or atopic dermatitis, which is another type of eczema. It is also more common in people who already have atopic dermatitis, stasis dermatitis, or contact dermatitis.
Several things can bring on or worsen a flare:
- Dry skin, including extremely dry skin.
- Irritants in the environment.
- Temperature changes.
- Stress.
- A skin injury such as a cut, bug bite, or scrape.
- Some medicines have been linked to it.
Do not stop a prescribed medicine without talking to the doctor who prescribed it.
How doctors diagnose it
A provider can usually diagnose nummular eczema by looking at your skin. They also ask about your family's medical history. A skin biopsy, which means testing a small piece of skin, may be needed to check for similar conditions. Allergy testing may be done.
Ringworm and psoriasis can look like nummular eczema. A doctor may send you to a dermatologist if they are not sure of the diagnosis or if you need a patch test.
Treatment
Nummular eczema is often treated with medicines applied to the skin. These are called topical medicines. Treatment can include:
- A mild hydrocortisone (steroid) cream or ointment at first. You may need a stronger medicine if this does not work.
- Other creams or ointments that help quiet the immune response. These may be prescribed for anyone over 2 years old.
- Coal tar creams or ointments for thickened areas.
- Moisturizers called emollients, to keep the skin from drying out.
- Antihistamines, medicines that can reduce itching.
- Antibiotic cream for infected skin, or antibiotic pills in severe cases.
Your provider may also suggest a wet wrap. You put petroleum jelly or steroid ointment on the spots. Then you cover the area with wet bandages. Follow your provider's instructions for how long to keep the area covered.
These steps can help symptoms or stop them from returning:
- Use lukewarm water when you bathe, and take shorter or fewer baths and showers.
- Skip soap and use a gentle, mild cleanser instead.
- Pat the spots dry and apply lotion before the skin is completely dry.
- Wear loose clothing and avoid rough fabrics such as wool.
- Use a humidifier at home.
When caught early and treated properly, nummular eczema can heal within 3 to 4 weeks. Without treatment, it can last for weeks, months, or even years. It may keep coming back, often in the same area.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of nummular eczema. Also contact your provider if symptoms continue despite treatment.
Get medical advice if you think your skin may be infected. Warning signs include fever, redness, or pain, a yellow crust, or skin that is hot, swollen, and tender. You may need an antibiotic.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can look at your skin, review your history, and start basic skin care. They can also follow your progress and refer you to a dermatologist if flares keep coming back.
Common questions
Is nummular eczema contagious?
No, nummular eczema is not contagious. You cannot catch it or give it to anyone.
How long does nummular eczema last?
It depends. When caught early and treated properly, it can heal within 3 to 4 weeks. Without treatment, it can last for weeks, months, or even years, and it may come back.
Can nummular eczema be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent it. Once you have had it, a dermatologist may be able to find something your skin is sensitive to. Avoiding it, along with proper skin care, can prevent new flare-ups.
Is nummular eczema the same as ringworm?
No, but they can look alike. Ringworm and psoriasis can look like nummular eczema. A dermatologist can see the small differences in your skin.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Nummular eczema
- American Academy of Dermatology - Eczema types: Nummular eczema overview
- NHS - Discoid eczema
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
