Concept and Etiology:
Atopic dermatitis, also referred to as eczema, is a chronic
inflammatory condition. It is a condition that makes your skin red and
itchy. It's common in children but can occur at any age. “Atopic
dermatitis is long lasting and tends to flare periodically. It has an
inherited tendency and may be accompanied by asthma and allergic
rhinitis. It tends to be characterized by remissions and exacerbations.
The exact cause is unknown, but atopic dermatitis may result from an
immune system malfunction, similar to hypersensitivity” (Story, L.,
2017).
Classification:
Atopic dermatitis is seen in approximately 10% to 30% of children
and 2% to 10% of adults in developed countries. Atopic dermatitis is
divided into three subsets based on the age of onset:
• Early-onset atopic dermatitis (birth to 2 years old): a most
common type of atopic dermatitis, with approximately 60% of
cases starting by age 1. Sixty percent of cases resolve by 12
years old.
• Late-onset atopic dermatitis: symptoms begin after the onset
of puberty
• Senile onset atopic dermatitis: an unusual subset with onset in
patients older than 60 years old.
(StatPearls, 2021)
Clinical Manifestations:
The skin lesions primarily affect the face, scalp, hands, or feet in
young children. “Clinical manifestations may be made worse by
exposure to allergens, cold and dry air, upper respiratory infections,
contact with irritants, dry skin, emotional stress, and extreme
temperatures”. Signs and symptoms are listed below:
• Red to brownish-gray colored skin patches
• Pruritus, which may be severe, especially at night
• Vesicles
• Thickened, cracked, or scaly skin
• Irritated, sensitive skin from scratching (MayoClinic, 2020)
Diagnostic Tests:
Diagnostic procedures for atopic dermatitis include a:
• history
• physical examination
• allergy testing
• skin biopsy
REFERENCES
Story, L. (2017). Pathophysiology: A Practical Approach (3rd Edition).
Jones & Bartlett Learning.
https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781284142983
Kolb L, Ferrer-Bruker SJ. Atopic Dermatitis. [Updated 2021 Aug 13].
In: Stat Pearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): Stat Pearls Publishing;
2021 Jan-. Available from:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448071/
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-
eczema/symptoms-causes/syc-20353273
