What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic Dermatitis or eczema is a chronic skin disorder that most often appears in infancy or childhood but may last for a lifetime.  It is characterized by intermittently occurring plaques that are ill defined, scaly, and are often itchy.  Depending on the severity of the condition, atopic dermatitis can lead to significant disfigurement. 

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers 

1. Who gets Atopic Dermatitis? 
   Atopic Dermatitis most commonly occurs in infancy or childhood.  Most patients have a family history of atopy—including atopic dermatitis, asthma or allergic rhinitis.  Other risk factors for atopic dermatitis include environmental conditions, such as humidity, skin irritants, and emotional stress. 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
2. Where is Atopic Dermatitis found? 
   There are different stages of atopic dermatitis, which vary in location.  The infantile stage is found most often on the face, scalp, trunk and extensor surfaces.  It spares the nose and diaper area.  The childhood stage (2 years old to puberty) most commonly affects the area behind the knees and elbows, wrists, ankles, and neck.  The adult stage has a distribution that is similar to that of children, but also affects the wrists, hands, feet, and toes. 
                                                                          
3. How can I treat this condition? 
   There are different stages of atopic dermatitis, which vary in location.  The infantile stage is found most often on the face, scalp, trunk and extensor surfaces.  It spares the nose and diaper area.  The childhood stage (2 years old to puberty) most commonly affects the area behind the knees and elbows, wrists, ankles, and neck.  The adult stage has a distribution that is similar to that of children, but also affects the wrists, hands, feet, and toes
   

For more information on Atopic Dermatitis, please visit the following website:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Atopic_Dermatitis/default.asp