Atopic eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory itchy skin condition that develops in early childhood in the majority of cases in patients with an underlying atopic tendency.
Characterized by flares and remissions.
Clinical presentation
Infantile stage
– The face (cheeks) is favoured in young infants which later progresses to extensor surfaces of the arms and legs especially in crawling ages 8 to 10 months.
Childhood stage:
– The Flexural areas and sometimes on the face, neck and trunk.
Adolescent and adult stage;-
– Anywhere on the body with a tendency also to present on the flexural areas.
Triggers
Climate-low humidity, cold
Hot water
Soaps/ detergents
Psychological stress
Wool
Overdressing-too warm
Protein contact dermatitis-fish, eggs meat, eggs, vegetables, nuts
Staphylococcal infections
House dust mite
Pets sunlight