Atopic dermatitis (eczema)

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing skin disease that has flare-ups and remissions. It usually appears in childhood, but it is also very common in adults. Atopic dermatitis is often associated with a personal or family history of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and conjunctivitis.

What are the causes of atopic dermatitis?

The exact causes of atopic dermatitis are not completely known, but it appears to be due to a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors.

What are the symptoms?

• Dry skin
• Intense itching
• Lichenification (thickening) and roughness of the skin
• Erythematous plaques and desquamation (shedding of skin)

Management and coping methods:

• Systematic hydration of the skin
• Use of topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors
• Use of gentle cleaning gels without soap and fragrance
• Cotton clothes and not wool or synthetics