Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is an inflammatory disease that results in the irritation of the epidermal layer. This attack of the immune system results in patchy skin and rashes manifesting on the patient’s body. Other symptoms include rough patches of red skin that bleed when scratched or release clear fluid and the hardening of parts of the skin.

Severity

Eczema is not considered life-threatening, but patients afflicted with the disease may develop skin infections that could be fatal.

Affected Demographic

Atopic dermatitis affects as many as 20% of children and 3% of adults and often affects patients when they are younger than 5 years old.

Treatment

A dermatologist may prescribe medications, steroid ointments or orals, or light therapy. Counseling, relaxation, behavior modification and biofeedback are also known to help the side effects of the disease.

Sources

1. “Can Eczema Kill You? Potential Risks of Other Conditions.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-eczema-kill-you#:~:text=Experts%20do%20not%20consider%20eczema,also%20develop%20from%20untreated%20infections.

2. “Atopic Dermatitis Epidemiology and Demographics.” Wikidoc, www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Atopic_dermatitis_epidemiology_and_demographics#:~:text=Age,during%20infancy%20and%20early%20childhood.

3. “Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 15 May 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atopic-dermatitis-eczema/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353279.