ABSTRACT
In atopic dermatitis (AD) the skin is chronically dry and itchy but also susceptible to inter - mittent inflammatory exacerbations. An acute flare of AD is characterized by worsening pruritus and active skin inflammation which, if untreated, can involve the whole skin. A number of factors can precipitate an exacer - bation of AD, including temperature changes (central heating), strong sunlight (in some individuals, in others summer sunshine is helpful), common allergens (house dust mite, animal dander), and pregnancy. Secondary staphylococcal skin infection commonly com - plicates acute AD and, indeed, may be the trig - ger for a sudden deterioration in previously well controlled eczema.
