What is atopic dermatitis (AD)?
Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema (EK-zema), is a common skin disease. It affects children more than adults. The main symptoms are red, dry, and itchy skin. AD can happen in cycles (episodes) that last weeks to months. AD often responds well to treatment and is not contagious. People with AD cannot “give” it to someone else. It is a chronic (long-lasting) condition. Treatments are helpful. What causes atopic dermatitis? The exact cause of AD is not known, although triggers in the environment and family history (genes) seem to be important and may affect the immune system, the skin, or both. Children with AD often have a parent with either allergies or asthma. The skin becomes inflamed (swollen) and itchy because of triggers. The triggers of AD include • sweat • very hot, cold, dry, or humid air • dry skin • skin irritants (chemicals, soaps, perfumes, and clothes that “rub” the skin too much) • emotions • allergies to certain things (such as foods or environmental allergens l
