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What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy, dry, and irritated. It commonly begins in childhood but can persist into adulthood or even start later in life.

Atopic dermatitis is part of the “atopic triad,” which includes asthma and allergic rhinitis, meaning individuals with one of these conditions are more likely to develop the others. The disease results from a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors that affect the skin’s ability to act as a protective barrier.

Is Atopic Dermatitis common?

Yes, atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin disorders worldwide. It affects up to 20% of children and 1–3% of adults. While the severity can vary, it often has a chronic, relapsing course with periods of flare-ups and remission.

Can Atopic Dermatitis be cured?

Atopic dermatitis cannot be permanently cured, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Proper skincare, avoidance of triggers, and medication can reduce flare-ups and improve quality of life. Most people achieve significant symptom relief with consistent care.

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Causes

What causes Atopic Dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis is caused by a combination of factors that disrupt the skin’s barrier function and trigger immune responses. Common causes include:

Genetic factors – family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies
Immune system dysfunction – overactive immune responses cause inflammation
Skin barrier defects – decreased natural oils and protective proteins lead to dry, sensitive skin
Environmental factors – exposure to allergens, irritants, pollution, or harsh soaps
Microbial factors – skin infections or imbalances in skin bacteria
Stress – emotional stress can trigger or worsen flare-ups

What are the risk factors?

You may be more likely to develop atopic dermatitis if you:

Have a family history of eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis
Have sensitive skin prone to dryness
Are exposed to allergens or irritants regularly
Live in urban or polluted environments
Have other atopic conditions like asthma or hay fever

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Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?

Symptoms often vary in intensity and can appear differently in children and adults. Common symptoms include:

Dry, scaly, or thickened skin
Redness and inflammation
Itching, which can be severe and worsen at night
Crusting or oozing in severe cases
Small bumps that may leak fluid when scratched
Darkened skin patches from chronic scratching or rubbing
Skin infections from bacteria due to broken skin

Symptoms often flare up periodically, triggered by allergens, stress, or environmental changes.

Diagnosis

How is Atopic Dermatitis diagnosed?

Atopic dermatitis is primarily diagnosed through clinical evaluation. Tests may include:

Medical history – family history of atopic conditions, symptom pattern, triggers
Physical examination – assessment of skin lesions, distribution, and severity
Allergy testing – skin prick or blood tests to identify triggering allergens
Patch testing – to rule out contact dermatitis in adults with persistent symptoms

Early diagnosis allows for better management and prevention of complications such as infections or chronic skin thickening.

Treatment

How is Atopic Dermatitis treated?

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and maintaining healthy skin:

Lifestyle and skincare measures:

Regular moisturizing with emollients to repair the skin barrier
Gentle skin cleansing and avoiding harsh soaps or detergents
Identifying and avoiding personal triggers (allergens, irritants, stress)
Wearing soft, breathable clothing and avoiding overheating

Medications:

Topical corticosteroids – reduce inflammation during flare-ups
Topical calcineurin inhibitors – for sensitive areas like the face or eyelids
Oral antihistamines – to reduce itching
Antibiotics – if secondary bacterial infections occur
Systemic medications – for severe cases, including biologics such as dupilumab

Additional measures:

Wet wrap therapy for severe flare-ups in children
Allergen avoidance strategies for patients with identified triggers
Education on proper skincare routines and early recognition of flare-ups

With consistent management, most people with atopic dermatitis can achieve symptom relief, reduce flare-ups, and improve quality of life.

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References

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, March 18). Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, February 20). Atopic Dermatitis. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov‍
American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2023). Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis).https://www.aad.org

Affordable – with or without insurance

With Insurance

Book Appointment

Without Insurance

*Price Effective 12/1/2025

$169

Initial Visit

$109

Follow Up

Book Appointment

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy, dry, and irritated.

About

Heading

What is Atopic Dermatitis?

Is Atopic Dermatitis common?

Can Atopic Dermatitis be cured?

Causes

What causes Atopic Dermatitis?

What are the risk factors?

With Insurance

Without Insurance

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Symptoms

What are the symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis?

Diagnosis

How is Atopic Dermatitis diagnosed?

Treatment

How is Atopic Dermatitis treated?

References

Affordable – with or without insurance

With Insurance

Without Insurance

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Heading 2

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