Atopic Dermatitis or Eczema

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritus.

Signs and Symptoms:
Dry, scaly, itchy patches and plaques with excoriations in the flexural areas (elbows, knees, antecubital fossae, buttocks) and neck

Etiology:

• Skin irritants such as dry skin, wool clothing and perfume
• Stress
• Airborne allergens (dust mites, pollens)
• Foods (eggs, milk, peanuts, seafood, wheat, soybeans)
• Asthma and allergic rhinitis

Treatments:

• Mild soaps and emollients
• Topical steroids
• Topical tacrolimus
• PUVA phototherapy
• Methotrexate