Which of the following conditions is often chronic and characterized by inflammation and scaling?

The condition characterized by chronic inflammation and scaling is eczema. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a long-lasting inflammatory skin condition that often appears as red, itchy patches. It typically involves a cycle of flare-ups, where the skin becomes inflamed, followed by periods of improvement. The scaling can occur due to the skin becoming dry and irritated, leading to further discomfort.

Eczema commonly affects individuals with a personal or family history of allergies and asthma, suggesting a genetic component to its development. The chronic nature of eczema can lead to significant distress for individuals, as the condition can be persistent and often requires ongoing management through moisturizers, topical steroids, and other therapeutic measures to control symptoms and prevent irritation.

Although dermatitis and contact dermatitis also involve inflammation, eczema's defining characteristic is its chronicity and the specific symptoms associated with it, including intense itching and a tendency to develop into more severe phases over time.