Atopic dermatitis is an allergic hypersensitivity reaction, affecting skin inflammation. It is estimated that about 20% of children experience symptoms of this disease. Atopic dermatitis presents itself in the form of intense itching, blisters with oozing or crusting, skin rashes, ichthyosis, thick leathery skin (lichenification), and small, rough bumps (keratosis pilaris), especially on the face, upper arm, and thighs. Other parts affected include the under eye portion, where an extra fold of skin (Dennie-Morgan fold) may develop, the palm, which may show extra skin creases, and eyelids, which become hyperpigmented. About 75% of children affected with atopic eczema go ahead to develop hay fever or asthma. In some patients, the condition may also be associated with allergic rhinitis, food allergy, urticaria (hive formation), and/or increased IgE production. Various theories exist on the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis. These include an immune defect involving an abnormality of TH2 cells, a defective barrier function in the stratum corneum, and a defective ceramide production leading to xerosis.
The major medication prescribed for atopic dermatitis is topical steroids. Other forms of management recommended are application of moisturizers or other topical creams to reduce the drying of the skin, using a soap substitute such as an aqueous cream, avoiding contact with known allergens, and controlling stress, nervousness, anxiety, and depression.