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An update on Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Pharmacists Module 5, 2018
Atopic dermatitis (also termed atopic eczema), is a chronic, highly pruritic, inflammatory skin condition. Atopic dermatitis occurs most frequently in children, but also affects adults.
The rash is intolerably itchy. It produces considerable insomnia, which has an effect not only on the patient, but also on the family. The physical, psychological and economic burdens that atopic dermatitis places on patients and their families can be substantial.
Several studies have linked the incidence and severity of atopic dermatitis during childhood with subsequent development of allergic rhinitis and asthma. Collectively, these three disorders are often referred to as the ‘allergic march’.
This Module reviews what is currently known about atopic dermatitis, its pathophysiology and the approaches to symptom management and discusses how different immune modulating treatments may modify the course of the disease.
