This is an inflammatory, chronic, recurring skin condition. It usually develops in babies or young children and can last into adulthood.
The exact cause is unknown, but it has a hereditary component.
The main symptom is a skin rash, usually accompanied by severe itching and blisters that develop and fester, leaving yellow scabs.
Diagnosis is based on a detailed history and physical examination.
Treatment is based on the administration of corticosteroid creams, oral antihistamines and moisturising the skin; in severe cases, oral steroids are administered.
- William L Weston, William Howe. Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis of atopic dermatitis (eczema). UpToDate. Jun 21, 2016.
- William L Weston, William Howe. Treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). UpToDate. Sep 13, 2016.
- Eichenfield LF, Tom WL, Chamlin SL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: section 1. Diagnosis and assessment of atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2014; 70:338.
- Vinding GR, Zarchi K, Ibler KS, et al. Is adult atopic eczema more common than we think? - A population-based study in Danish adults. Acta Derm Venereol 2014; 94:480.
- Leslie P. Lawley, Calvin O. McCall y Thomas J. Lawley. Eccema, psoriasis, infecciones cutáneas, acné y otros trastornos cutáneos frecuentes. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición. 344:345
- T. Gallart. Enfermedades alérgicas mediadas por anticuerpos IgE (hipersensibilidad inmediata o alerga atópica). Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición. 2709:2710.

