ABSTRACT

Widespread regions of dry itchy skin is one of the prominent clinical features of atopic dermatitis [1]. The intense itch is the most characteristic feature of this disease, and the consequences include scratching and eczematous lesions, as illustrated in Figure 1. Scratching can lead to disruption of the stratum corneum and infection. This disease is generally associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and elevated levels of IgE. There is frequently a family history of atopic dermatitis, indicating a genetic component in the etiology of the disease. All of these factors are taken into account in arriving at a clinical diagnosis.