SAN DIEGO -- Rady Children's Hospital is developing what officials said is the nation's first comprehensive center for eczema, a chronic skin condition that affects 15 to 20 percent of children, 10News reported.

The new center aims not only to tailor treatments to each child's condition but also conduct research on the cause of eczema and remedies for it, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

Symptoms of eczema, a non-contagious condition that also afflicts 10 percent of adults, include rashes, blisters and dry, scaly and itchy skin that can bleed when scratched, inviting infection.

Rady's leaders say they have more pediatric dermatologists than many other children's hospitals. They hope to better coordinate that pool of talent through the center, the Union-Tribune reported.

Nearly 10 clinical trials are in the works at the center and 35 more are in earlier stages of planning. Most of these studies are funded by pharmaceutical companies with promising eczema products, the newspaper reported.

The hospital's efforts are earning praise from the National Eczema Association, an education and support group based in San Rafael.

"What they're doing in San Diego is providing a total patient package," Vicki Kalabokes, the association's chief executive, told the Union-Tribune. "We only wish we could replicate it."