Atopic dermatitis (AD) or atopic eczema, is a common, chronic skin disorder with increasing global prevalence.

It is relapsing skin disorder seen mostly in infants and children but it and can persist into adulthood. Statistics show that almost 10% to 20% of the population in the United States suffers from AD. About 66% patients develop the disorder before 1 year of age and 90% by 5 years of age. AD prevalence is increasing. This condition usually occurs in people who have other chronic conditions, including asthma, hayfever, or food allergies, or who have family members who have these disorders.

AD is a complex, chronic inflammatory skin disease and its precise mechanism is not known.

Atopic dermatitis results in dry, easily irritated, itchy skin and usually leads to scratching and rubbing. This can continue for years and may dramatically damage the skin, especially when it is scratched. Scratching causes more injures, further irritation and increases inflammation. This is called the "itch-scratch" ongoing cycle.

A primary and constant concern of this cycle is fear of flare-ups and being caught. Emotions such as anger, frustration, and stress do not cause AD, but they may lead to or worsen the "itch-scratch" cycle. Once the skin barrier is no longer intact, anything can irritate the skin and cause AD to flare. Environmental factors such as wind, low humidity, cold temperature, excessive washing without use of moisturizers or use of harsh, drying soaps are frequently reported to cause this irritation.

AD treatment requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. It includes the evaluation of the potential triggers and education of the patient and his/her family regarding avoidance of these triggers. Good daily skin care emphasizing hydration and maintenance of an intact skin barrier remains integral to management. Patients should receive oral and written information that includes detailed skin care recommendations such as bathing, use of cleansers, moisturizers, and topical and oral medications. Hydration and use of therapies like wet wraps must be explained in details. When recommending moisturizers, it is helpful to give patients specific brands and explain the importance of avoiding products with sensitizing ingredients such as fragrances, preservatives, and stabilizers.

Valerian D is a freelance writer specialized in health issues affecting men and women as well such as skin diseases