Which of the following describes severe eczema?

Severe eczema is characterized by split skin and weeping areas. In this stage of the condition, the skin becomes extremely irritated and can develop cracks, leading to oozing or weeping of fluid. This occurs due to the breakdown of the skin's barrier, which usually provides protection. As eczema worsens, the inflammation can lead to these significant symptoms, making it important to recognize them for appropriate management and treatment.

The other symptoms mentioned represent various stages or types of eczema but don't necessarily capture the severity indicated in the question. For instance, while red, inflamed skin with tiny blisters may suggest an irritated or acute phase, it doesn’t indicate the same level of severity as split skin. Thickened, scaly patches are usually seen in chronic cases of eczema but do not reflect the immediate acute condition of weeping lesions. Dark, discolored spots might be a result of post-inflammatory changes but do not describe the active symptoms of a severe eczema flare-up. Thus, understanding the specific presentation of severe eczema is essential for effectively diagnosing and treating this condition.