Atopic Dermatitis(Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is predominantly characterized by eczema, dry skin, and itching. These symptoms are age-dependent and often associated with other atopic diseases (allergic asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies) which may start simultaneously or in succession in what is known as the ATOPIC MARCH.

Numerous hereditary and environmental factors, and their mutual interactions, participate in the development and clinical manifestations of AD, which can vary significantly in appearance, intensity, and course. The latest findings regarding AD pathogenesis point to a disturbance in the function of the epidermal barrier, a disruption of the immune response, colonization of the skin by microorganisms, an increased tendency toward infection, and certain psychological factors among other causes/triggers.

Common Symptoms

Atopic dermatitis often affects certain areas of the body, such as skin folds, the head, face and neck, hands and wrists, and feet and ankles. Itch is the most common symptom associated with atopic dermatitis, but patients may also experience skin pain and sleep difficulties.

The most common symptoms of AD include:

Management

Atopic dermatitis is typically a clinical diagnosis given the classic distribution of lesions in each age group. A biopsy will show an eczematous pattern. In childhood cases that are recalcitrant to treatment, detection of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against specific allergens, which may or may not be a clinically relevant exacerbating factor can be done.

Nonmedication Treatments to Manage Atopic Dermatitis

Patients with atopic dermatitis should receive education about how to identify and limit exposure to triggers.

SELF HELP - DO’S AND DONT’S

Medications to Treat Atopic Dermatitis

Although there is no cure for atopic dermatitis, medications that regulate inflammation and immune system activity can improve or resolve symptoms that are not well controlled with the nonmedication treatments listed above.
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