What is atopic dermatitis

Many different skin manifestations actually have eczema as their common denominator. This is defined as a dermatitis characterised by the presence of erythema and superficial vesicles (vesiculae punctatae), which break down to form squamo-crusts, often accompanied by intense itching.

In medical terms, dermatitis is very often referred to as eczema, and the most common is certainly atopic dermatitis, which can occur at different ages. We therefore have atopic dermatitis in infants, juvenile plantar dermatitis, which occurs in adolescence, and adult or elderly dermatitis.

Are you interested in finding out more details about atopic dermatitis? Great, then we can’t do anything else but advise you to continue reading our article, because we are going to analyse this skin disease in every single detail, so that we can identify its various characteristics. We hope you enjoy your reading!

What is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is one of the various skin disorders that are specifically treated by dermatologists.

It is frequent, with a chronic relapsing course, and is especially widespread in industrialised countries. It is characterised by eczema, dryness and intense itching.

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?

The clinical manifestations of atopic dermatitis are different. Firstly, in the initial stages, we can identify generalised redness, especially on the face, in which small pustules and scabs tend to form.

In the subsequent phase, the patient tends to have the need to scratch frequently, breaking up the rashes and creating scabs.

The epidemiology of atopic dermatitis: how widespread is this skin disorder?
Atopic dermatitis is the most common dermatosis in children:

• up to 30% of children suffer from it and up to 5% of adults
• first year of life: 60% of cases
• first 5 years of life: 80% of cases

Prevalence is increasing, both in children and in adolescents and adults, with different forms. 30 years ago or in the 1970s this disease was considered extremely rare in adulthood: it was thought to disappear with development, but in reality it remains in a chronic form and is difficult to eradicate.

Both dryness and itching, dermatitis affects the quality of life of those affected, to an extent comparable to kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, etc.

It is very important to point out that if atopic dermatitis is not treated properly, the complications may not be entirely pleasant. It is therefore essential to visit a dermatologist as soon as possible if you think you have typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis, so that you can devise a treatment plan that is perfect for your needs.

What are the complications related to atopic dermatitis lesions?
Regarding complications, atopic dermatitis lesions can become over-infected with :

• S. aureus, giving impetigo;
• Herpes, which forms the classic herpetic eczema typical of this virus;
• Infections from common viruses, such as Molluscipox virus, which infects children much more easily;
• Warts on feet, hands and face from HPV.