The chronic condition atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, leads to dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. About 10 to 20 percent of children and 1 to 3 percent of adults suffer from this dermatitis. Although atopic dermatitis can affect any part of the body, it is most common on the face, neck, hands, feet, elbows, and knees. It causes physical discomfort, emotional distress, sleep problems, and social stigma for those with atopic dermatitis and their families.
Causes of Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Atopic dermatitis is caused by a defect in the skin barrier, which causes the skin to lose moisture and let allergens, irritants, bacteria, and viruses in. As a result, the skin becomes inflamed and itchy.
Atopic dermatitis can be triggered or worsened by factors that damage the skin barrier:
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A substance that causes allergic reactions in some people, such as dust mites, pollen, animal dander, mold, food, or latex, is called an allergen.
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Skin irritants include soap, detergent, perfume, cosmetics, wool, and synthetic fabrics.
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Atopic dermatitis is generally associated with infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common infection associated with the condition.
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A change in temperature, humidity, or air quality can affect the skin's moisture level and cause flare-ups.
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A person's immune system and skin's ability to heal can be affected by emotional or physical stress.
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A change in hormone levels during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can affect the skin's sensitivity and oil production.
Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis
Age, severity, and location of the affected skin all affect the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. The most common symptoms are:
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Dryness: The skin becomes dry and flaky due to loss of moisture and natural oils.
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Itching: The skin becomes itchy due to inflammation and irritation. Scratching can worsen the condition and lead to infection or scarring.
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Redness: The skin becomes red or pink due to increased blood flow and inflammation.
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Swelling: The skin becomes swollen or puffy due to fluid accumulation and inflammation.
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Scaling: The skin becomes scaly or rough due to excessive shedding of dead skin cells.
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Cracking: The skin becomes cracked or fissured due to loss of elasticity and moisture.
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Blisters: The skin develops fluid-filled bumps or vesicles due to infection or allergic reaction.
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Lichenification: The skin becomes thickened or leathery due to chronic scratching and rubbing.
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis may come and go in cycles, and they may affect different parts of the body at different times. Some people may experience remission for months or years before having another flare-up.
Diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis
The doctor will ask about your medical history, family history, symptoms, and triggers to diagnose atopic dermatitis. Additionally, your doctor will examine your skin to look for signs of infection, allergies, or other skin conditions. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes, the doctor may also perform certain tests. These include:
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Infections and fungus are detected by taking a small sample of your skin and examining it under a microscope.
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This test involves removing a small piece of your skin and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. It helps identify your skin condition's type and severity.
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An allergy test involves exposing your skin to different substances and observing your reaction. It can help identify which allergens trigger your symptoms.
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A blood test measures the level of antibodies, inflammation markers, or other substances in your blood. The test helps assess your immune system function and rule out other diseases.
Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
The treatment of atopic dermatitis aims to relieve symptoms, prevent infections, reduce inflammation, restore the skin barrier function, and avoid triggers. There are several treatment options available, depending on the severity and location of the condition, the patient's age, general health, and preferences.
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The purpose of moisturizers is to hydrate and protect the skin. They can be applied several times a day, especially after bathing or washing. They can reduce dryness, itching, cracking, and infection. Creams, ointments, lotions, and oils are examples of moisturizers.
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To treat certain symptoms or conditions, topical medications are applied to the skin. Topical medications can reduce inflammation, itching, redness, swelling, or infection. Some examples include corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, antibiotics, antifungals, and antihistamines.
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These medications are taken by mouth to treat systemic or severe symptoms or conditions. A corticosteroid, an immunosuppressant, an antibiotic, an antifungal, or an antihistamine are examples of oral medications that suppress the immune system, reduce inflammation, relieve itching, or prevent infection.
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A phototherapy treatment involves exposing the skin to controlled amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light. It can reduce inflammation, itching, scaling, and infection. It can also make the skin appear and function better.
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Medications referred to as biologics are injected or infused into the body to target specific molecules or cells involved in the immune response. As well as modulating the immune system, biologics can also reduce inflammation and improve skin quality. Examples include dupilumab, nemolizumab, and lebrikizumab.
Prevention of Atopic Dermatitis
There is no cure for atopic dermatitis, but some steps can be taken to prevent or reduce flare-ups. These steps include:
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You can keep a diary of your symptoms and triggers so you can identify and avoid them. Triggers may include allergens, irritants, infections, climate, stress, or hormones.
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Keep your skin clean, moisturized, and protected by practicing good skin care. Wash your skin with mild soap, lukewarm water, and gentle patting. Apply moisturizer three minutes after bathing or washing to lock in moisture. Sunscreen, clothing, and gloves can also protect your skin from sun exposure, friction, and injury.
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Take your medications exactly as prescribed, apply your topical products as instructed, and follow up with your doctor regularly. Monitor your symptoms and let your doctor know if anything changes.
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When you experience anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem as a result of your condition, you can seek emotional and social support from your family, friends, or support groups. You can also seek professional help from a counselor or therapist.
Conclusion
One of the most common types of dermatitis is atopic dermatitis, which causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It affects about 10 to 20% of children and 1 to 3% of adults worldwide. Those with atopic dermatitis may experience physical discomfort, emotional distress, sleep problems, as well as social stigma, which can adversely affect their quality of life. The doctor can diagnose atopic dermatitis based on the patient's medical history, family history, symptoms, and triggers. He or she may also perform some tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options for atopic dermatitis include relieving symptoms, preventing infections, reducing inflammation, restoring skin barrier function, and avoiding triggers. The treatment options include moisturizers, topical medications, oral medications, phototherapy, and biologics. It is also possible to prevent or reduce atopic dermatitis by identifying and avoiding triggers, practicing good skin care, following a treatment plan, and seeking support. The condition of atopic dermatitis is manageable and does not interfere with daily activities or quality of life. Skin with atopic dermatitis can be healthy and comfortable with proper care and prevention.
