Atopic dermatitis, commonly referred to as eczema, is a chronic skin condition
that usually appears in the first few years of life.
The term "atopic" refers to inherited allergic reactions. People whose parents
have allergies are often born with allergy-related antibodies (IgE) in their
blood. This makes them likely to allergies right away.
Atopic dermatitis is often related to other allergic conditions. More than
50% of people with atopic dermatitis later develop asthma and 75% develop allergic
rhinitis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of atopic dermatitis are intense itching, inflammation, and sensitivity
of the skin. The itchiness is usually worse at night and can disrupt sleep.
The appearance and location of the rash may depend on the age of the patient.
In infants, atopic dermatitis often appears as a bubbling or oozing rash on
the face, hands, and feet. In older children and adults, it may appear as a
red, scaly, and itchy rash on the neck, hands, feet, and creases of the elbows
and knees. During severe outbreaks, the rash may appear all over the body.
People who have atopic dermatitis can easily get skin infections because the
skin is often raw and open from scratching. These secondary infections, caused
by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, can make controlling dermatitis difficult.
| The symptoms of atopic dermatitis are intense itching,
inflammation, and sensitivity of the skin. The reaction on the skin as
seen above is one of several possible appearances of atopic dermatitis. |
Causes
The causes of atopic dermatitis are sometimes unclear. In young children,
exposure to airborne allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, pet dander) or foods
(e.g., milk, eggs, and peanuts) can cause atopic dermatitis breakouts.
Emotional stress, high temperatures, and exposure to irritants also can contribute
to breakouts.
Diagnosing atopic dermatitis
If you suspect you (or your child) have atopic dermatitis, visit the doctor
for a proper diagnosis. The doctor will try to determine what is causing the
rash by asking about things you have been exposed to (e.g., animals, dust).
The doctor may look for the characteristic scaling or bubbling, ask about the
intensity of the itching, and ask about other allergies that may contribute
to the dermatitis symptoms.
Allergy testing may be necessary to confirm
whether the rash is caused by food or airborne allergies.
Treatment
Avoid scratching the rash if you can -- relieve the itch by using a cold compress
or lubricating the skin with ointment or mild, unscented lotion.
If you have allergies, take steps to avoid the allergens that cause symptoms.
If this doesn't help, over-the-counter topical corticosteroid creams may relieve
itching and inflammation. Stronger prescription medicines are also available.
In addition, if you get a secondary infection caused by scratching, your doctor
may prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal medication.
References
Hanifin JM, Cooper KD, Ho VC, Kang S, Krafchik BR, Margolis DJ, et al. Guidelines
of care for atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004 Mar;50(3):391-404.
Leung DY, Nicklas RA, Li JT, Bernstein IL, Blessing-Moore J, Boguniewicz M,
et al. Disease management of atopic dermatitis: an updated practice parameter.
Joint Task Force on Practice Parameters. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol.
2004 Sep;93(3 suppl 2):S1-21.
Review Date:
4/4/2007
Reviewed By:
Alan Greene, M.D., F.A.A.P., Department of Pediatrics, Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University School of Medicine; Chief Medical Officer, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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