Friday, January 29, 2010

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis (also known as atopic eczema or skin asthma) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, itchy skin. It is most commonly seen in infants and children. For some children, the condition improves as they grow older. For others, it continues to be a significant problem into adulthood.

Atopic Dermatitis is generally attributed to both genetic and environmental factors. Children have a strong probability of developing atopic dermatitis if one or both of their parents have had it or have had any allergic conditions.

Here are some things to remember if your child has Atopic Dermatitis:

1. Avoid contact with cleansers or detergents which contain soap. Soaps and detergents trip the skin of its protective lipids, causing the skin barrier to be further impaired. This increases water loss from the skin which may worsen the eczema.
2. Don't scratch or rub the affected skin because it can intensify the itch.
3. Avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes
4. Choose clothing made of cotton instead of wool and linen.
5. Avoid food that can trigger the eczema like cow's milk, egg, soy, seafood, wheat and peanut.
6. Keep the skin well moisturized. Moisturizers soothe the itch and dry skin associated with atopic dermatitis.

Treatment Options for Atopic Dermatitis:
1. moisturizers like Physiogel AI Cream, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
2. topical steroids like Hydrocortisone
3. oral antihistamine like Cetirizine

source: Stiefel

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