Eczema is not contagious. However, if the raw, irritated skin of eczema becomes infected, the infecting agent may be contagious. Although the cause of eczema is not known, it is thought to be related to allergic diseases.Because it often occurs in family members, it is felt that a person's inherited genes may play a role in its development.czema can occur at any age and is chronic. The condition has a tendency to periodically worsen and then subside and may accompany bouts of asthma or hay fever. Eczema is a general term that includes many different types of skin problems. Eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis.