Atopic Dermatitis NYC - (212)-644-9494 - NYC Atopic Dermatitis

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Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)



Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic skin disorder that that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The rash of AD comes and goes in cycles. The worsening of AD ("flares") can be brought on by a variety of triggers.

AD is very common, affecting 10-15 percent of people. It is not contagious. However, the severe itching and irritation during flare-ups can be extremely bothersome and even painful. The rash can also be unsightly.

Fortunately, most cases respond well to treatment.

The term "eczema" is sometimes used to describe atopic dermatitis. Eczema refers to inflamed, itching skin from a variety of causes. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema.

The appearance of AD varies tremendously from person to person. Most people with AD experience a short-term flare for a few weeks (acute), during which the skin looks red, raised, and cracked. Between flares, the skin may appear normal or slightly dry. If the rash lasts a long time (chronic), the skin may start to change appearance, becoming thicker and darker. These patches of thickened skin take longer to respond to treatment

What Causes Atopic Dermatitis?
The exact cause of AD is unknown, but the tendency to develop AD runs in families. People with atopic dermatitis are more likely to suffer allergies and/or symptoms of asthma. The connection between these disorders appears to be an overactive immune system.

T-cells, a type of white blood cell that fights infections, appear to be more active in people with AD. Changes beneath the skin make the skin of people with AD more susceptible to losing water quickly, leading to dry, cracked skin.

Although the immune system is overactive in people with AD, it is not always effective at fighting infections. In fact, people with AD are more susceptible to skin infections, such as impetigo.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?
The most obvious symptoms of AD are intense itching, along with red, dry skin that is sometimes scaly.

Infants - Children less than one year old often have AD widely distributed over their body. The skin is usually dry, scaly, and red. The baby may scratch the skin, leading to scratch marks. The cheeks of infants are often the first place to be affected. The diaper area is frequently spared because the moisture retained by the diapers prevents the skin from drying.

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