Atopic Dermatitis

Description

The most common form of the skin disorder known as eczema, characterized by areas of severe itching, redness,
scaling, and loss of the surface of the skin Typically affects young children on the face and extensor surfaces of the arms and legs (elbow and knee sides) Older children and adults are usually affected on the sides of the neck and on the inside of the elbow and knee Frequently associated with other atopic (allergic) disorders, especially asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

Appearance

  • Most often affects infants and young children
  • In some instances, it may persist into adulthood or actually first show up later in life
  • A large number of patients tend to have a long-term course with various flare ups and remissions
  • Many children enter into a permanent remission phase when they get older, although their skin may remain
    somewhat dry and easily irritated

Symptoms

  • Dry skin is a very common complaint and an underlying cause of some of the typical rash symptoms
  • Skin becomes extremely itchy and inflamed, causing redness, swelling, cracking, weeping, crusting,
    and scaling
  • When the rash has been present over a prolonged period, chronic changes may occur due to the constant
    scratching and rubbing

Treatment

  • Moisturizing skin frequently can be very beneficial. Short lukewarm baths with the addition of emulsifying oils are recommended. Let the body dry naturally after bathing
  • Apply an emollient all over the body while still wet, to seal in moisture and allow water to be absorbed through the skin stratum
  • Topical steroids (hydrocortisone) in ointment form are currently the preferred treatment and are known to produce favorable responses. Steroids should be discontinued when lesions disappear and resumed when new patches arise.
  • Immunomodulators – natural or synthetic substances that help regulate or normalize the immune system – have also been found to be effective
  • Ultraviolet light therapy
  • Soft, pure cotton fabrics are non-irritating and are recommended attire for sufferers of atopic dermatitis.
    Clothes should be washed in mild detergents only.
  

atopic_dermatitis

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