Do I Have Eczema? (Screening Tool)
Take the UK Working Party eczema screening — the most validated diagnostic criteria for atopic eczema worldwide. Answer 6 yes/no questions about itchy skin, skin crease involvement, dry skin, and age of onset. Instant results with 96% specificity. No login, no data stored.
Before You Start
- This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test
- All answers are processed in your browser only
- No data is stored or sent to any server
- Results can be copied to share with your clinician
What Is This Eczema Screening?
This screening uses the UK Working Party diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis (eczema), developed at the University of Nottingham in 1994. It is the most extensively validated eczema diagnostic tool worldwide, used in over 100 epidemiological studies across dozens of countries. The criteria were designed to be simple enough for non-specialists to use, taking under 2 minutes to complete.
How the Screening Works
The screening has two parts. First, a mandatory criterion: you must have an itchy skin condition (or have had one in the past 12 months). If you don't, atopic eczema is unlikely. If you do, the screening then checks 5 additional criteria: history of skin crease involvement, asthma or hay fever, generally dry skin, early onset (before age 2), and current visible eczema in skin creases. Meeting 3 or more of these 5 criteria suggests atopic eczema.
Understanding Your Result
This screening has 96% specificity, meaning very few people without eczema will be told they might have it. However, it is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. A "likely" result means you should see a GP or dermatologist for confirmation. An "unlikely" result doesn't rule out other skin conditions — if you have ongoing symptoms, medical advice is still recommended.
What Is Atopic Eczema?
Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It affects around 1 in 5 children and 1 in 10 adults. It often runs in families alongside asthma and hay fever (the "atopic triad"). While there is no cure, modern treatments can effectively control symptoms. Early identification and management can significantly improve quality of life and prevent complications like skin infections.