Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a hereditary condition caused by immune system hyperactivity. In the United States, it affects approximately 15 million adults and children. Broken down to percentages 10 to 20 percent of children and 1 to 3 percent of adults in the United States are affected with atopic dermatitis.[1] Other sources state prevalence of atopic dermatitis is between 10 and 12 percent for children and .9 percent for adults in the United States of America. Between 1997 and 2004 there has been an increase of office visits concerning atopic dermatitis. Internationally the prevalence is 15 to 30 percent of children and 2 to 10 percent of adults. Immigrants moving from less developed countries to a more developed country also report an increased prevalence of atopic dermatitis. Again, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis is increasing. [2] Atopic dermatitis may be the first sign of atopy leading to allergic rhinitis or asthma. This is known as the "atopic march" by epidemiologists. [1]
Symptoms
Symptoms of atopic dermatitis include inflammation and itching. [3] Normally the need to scratch is felt most during the evening at night, although it can be felt throughout the day. [1]
In children the areas normally affected include theneck and face while in adults dermatitis of the hand may be one of the first indicators. [1]
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation rather than diagnostic testing. [1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 www.aaaai.org. Retrieved on 2011-03-14.
- ↑ Atopic Dermatitis: eMedicine Dermatology. Retrieved on 2011-03-15.
- ↑ galenet.galegroup.com. Retrieved on 2011-03-14.