ABSTRACT
Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder. AD has a pathogenesis of complex immune dysregulation and interplay of genetic, environmental, epidermal and psychological factors. More than 50% of patients with AD develop asthma, and nearly 75% develop allergic rhinitis usually after the AD has developed. In 1980, Hannifin developed diagnostic criteria for AD. The major features include intense pruritus, facial and extensor involvement in infants and children, flexural lichenification in adults, a chronic and relapsing course and a personal or family history of atopic disease. An intact skin barrier provides the first line of defense against microbial infection. Maintaining this barrier via hydration, use of emollients and avoidance of irritants and known allergens is paramount in therapy of AD. Emollients are useful and important treatment adjuncts for patients with AD and may have a steroid-sparing effect. Soaking for 10 minutes in warm water followed immediately by application of an occlusive agent to prevent evaporation increases skin hydration.
