subject: what is atopic eczema how to prevent [print this page] what is atopic eczema how to prevent what is atopic eczema how to prevent
Atopic eczema is a very common skin condition. It is an itchy, chronic or chronically relapsing, inflammatory skin condition. The rash is characterized by itchy papules (occasionally vesicles in infants), which become excoriated and thickened. The term "eczema" is used interchangeably with "dermatitis" and refers to inflammation of the skin. Atopic eczema is also known as Atopic Dermatitis. The eruption is frequently associated with other atopic conditions in the individual or other family members such as bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis or hay fever, due to a genetic predisposition.
It is not an infectious disease. One would not develop atopic eczema by touching a kid or an adult known to have atopic eczema.
How does Atopic Eczema present?
Atopic eczema commonly presents in infancy and childhood, but can also occur for the first time in adults. It affects both sexes equally. In infancy, common areas affected include the face and outer aspects of the limbs. During childhood, it usually affects the skin folds such as the elbow bends, back of knees and neck. The wrists and hands are also frequently involved, and the ankles and feet may also be affected. In adults, atopic eczema is seen predominantly in a flexural distribution, but extensive areas of skin may be involved. Eczema may also occur around the lips, the eyes and other parts of the skin.
The hallmark of atopic eczema is severe itch which may be worsened by sweating or wool clothing. Another cardinal feature is generalized dry skin which is present in up to 98% of atopic eczema patients.
What causes atopic eczema?
The cause of atopic eczema is still not fully known. However, it is thought to arise from an interaction between environmental and genetic factors. Alterations in the immune system are also thought to play a part in the development of eczema. In addition, the skin barrier in atopic eczema is impaired, leading to dryness and susceptibility to bacterial and viral skin infections. There are many factors, including allergies, infections, emotional, climatic and other environmental influences that contribute to the causation of atopic dermatitis.
