Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

What is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is an allergic skin disorder that usually appears in babies or very young children, and which may last until the child reaches adolescence. Eczema causes the skin to itch, scale and flake.

How is eczema diagnosed?
Methods of diagnosis include:

• family history - children born to a mother who has allergic conditions are more prone to eczema.

• personal history of allergy or asthma

• blood tests

• skin tests

Treatment for eczema:
Specific treatment for eczema will be determined by your physician(s) based on:

• your overall health and medical history
• extent of the disease
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the disease
• your opinion or preference

Common treatments include:

• avoiding the food or environmental factors that may be the causes
• medications - as prescribed by a physician