Atopic Dermatitis is a skin disorder that occurs in adults and children. The skin is hypersensitive and reacts with inflammation. The skin can become extremely itchy, and if the condition becomes chronic, the skin may become scaly and thick.
Skin inflammation of genetic origin.
Inflammation of the skin. This form of dermatitis is closely linked with atopy, an inherited predisposition to become hypersensitive or allergic to substances such as pollen, ragweed, dust mites, molds, and animal scales or droppings. It is often associated with other atopic disorders such as hay fever and asthma. Atopic dermatitis affects approximately one in ten infants and young children. Some outgrow it, although their skin usually remains dry and easily irritated throughout life. Environmental influences can bring on the symptoms of dermatitis.
Chronic dermatitis of unknown etiology found in patients with a history of allergy. The disease usually begins after the first 2 months of life, and affected individuals may experience exacerbations and remissions throughout childhood and adulthood. In many cases, the family has a history of allergy or atopy; if both parents have atopic dermatitis, the chances are nearly 80% that their children will have it as well. The skin lesions consist of reddened, cracked, and thickened skin that can become exudative and crusty from scratching. Scarring or secondary infection may occur. Most patients have an elevated level of immunoglobulin E in their serum.
A condition characterized by a hypersensitivity of the skin to particular foods or environmental allergens that results in the skin becoming inflamed, feeling itchy, scaling, or flaking.
Eczema, a dermatological condition triggered by exposure to allergens present in the air, certain foods, or drugs.