Atopic dermatitis: in a nutshell

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is the inflammation of the skin that causes the sudden appearance of dry, itchy skin and red patches with blisters. Atopic dermatitis can occur in adults and children and, in some individuals, it is linked to asthma or allergic rhinitis.
The affected sites are varied, and atopic dermatitis tends to appear in individuals who have dry, reactive skin.

Description

Atopic dermatitis is characterized by the sudden inflammation of the skin, causing uncomfortable itching as well as clearly visible redness.
It usually affects the hands, feet, the inner elbow crease and back of the knees, wrists, ankles, face, neck, and chest. Atopic dermatitis is also commonly found around the eyes.
In infants, atopic dermatitis usually appears suddenly in the first few months or years of a child’s life. The sudden onset of atopic dermatitis is also a common feature in the adult population. If atopic dermatitis becomes chronic or, if the individual scratches rashes repeatedly, the skin may become thicker, resulting in the formation of patches of denser, hard and very itchy skin.

Causes

The causes of atopic dermatitis are not known, although it is believed that there is a hereditary component that induces a marked inflammatory reactivity toward common agents.
Individuals with atopic dermatitis have an impaired skin barrier function whereby substances that are usually external can permeate the skin more easily causing irritation.
Seasonal changes and psychophysical stress are also thought to be among the major causes of triggering atopic dermatitis.

Symptoms

Atopic dermatitis appears as red patches on dry, itchy skin, which may also be covered with blisters, abrasions and scabs.
The intensity of itching will vary from person to person, but in any case, tends to worsen overnight. More generally, the skin is more sensitive and unable to tolerate common products.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of atopic dermatitis generally requires the observation of symptoms during a dermatologic examination.

Treatment

Treatment of dermatitis differs according to its severity.
For mild cases, soothing over the counter products are available that can temporarily relieve inflammation and itching.
In more severe cases, stop washing the area so as not to aggravate the dermatitis. Instead, clean the area with “dry washing” using a towel moistened with potassium permanganate, an astringent and antiseptic solution.
To remedy rashes, apply Dermictiol Cream which contains the reducing agent ichthyol sulfonate; coal tar; or healing ointments such as PEG Ointment with allantoin
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis can improve with responsible sun exposure.
Avoid habits that can worsen atopic dermatitis.

Prevention

It is recommended to avoid too frequent bathing and washing, because over-cleaning and the use of more or less aggressive soaps graduallydeplete the skin of the outer layers that protect it. It is good to dry the skin gently, blotting out excess moisture rather than rubbing it off. Moisturising creams, emollients and perfumes should be avoided as they are not tolerated by atopic individuals. Avoid synthetic fibre clothing that keeps the skin moist. As soon as possible expose yourself to the sun sensibly and without using sun creams. Use Soothing Cream at the first hint of itching skin.