Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Overview

Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic skin disease. It is also called atopic eczema. Atopic is a term used to describe allergic conditions such as asthma and hay fever. Both dermatitis and eczema mean inflammation of the skin.

People with atopic dermatitis tend to have dry, itchy and easily irritated skin. They may have times when their skin is clear and other times when they have a rash.

Atopic dermatitis usually begins and ends during childhood, but some people continue to have the disease into adulthood. If you ever had atopic dermatitis, you may have trouble with one or more of these:

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Hand dermatitis
• Skin infections

Do you have atopic dermatitis (eczema)?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, talk with your health care provider about atopic dermatitis. You will be asked questions about your health and your skin. Be sure to tell your health care provider if you or anyone in your family has had a similar rash, asthma or allergies.  

• Do you have dry skin with an itchy, red or scaly rash?
• Do you itch or have a rash in the creases of your wrists,
  elbows, knees or on your face?
• Do you notice thick skin where there has been
  a past rash?

Find an eczema support group in your area. 

This information has been approved by  Mark Boguniewicz, MD (March 2009).