Atopic Dermatitis (eczema)

Atopic Dermatitis is a long term skin condition. It appears as a red, itchy rash, and sometimes as a thickening or discoloration of the skin. It often occurs in patients with other allergic conditions such as Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever).

The terms "dermatitis" and "eczema" are frequently used interchangeably. When the term "eczema" is used alone, it usually refers to Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema).

The allergic disorders affect 8 to 25 percent of populations worldwide and the incidence of allergic diseases and Atopic Dermatitis appear to be increasing. They may occur in any race or any place in the world, although there appears to be a higher incidence in city areas and developed countries, especially western societies.

Many things can trigger or make eczema worse. These can include allergies, emotional stress, changes in temperature or humidity or heat, skin infections as well as contact with irritating chemicals (such as soaps) and fabrics (such as wool or acrylic).

Atopic Dermatitis often causes the skin to itch intensely. Patients then face the challenge of the "itch-scratch-itch" syndrome. Areas that itch tend to be scratched by the patient, and scratching makes the eczema worse.

Treatments are usually aimed at identifying and removing any cause, moisturising dry skin, relieving the itch, suppressing the inflammation and treating and preventing skin infections that might occur.