Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Dermatitis

Dermatitis is a common inflammatory condition of the skin that causes swelling, redness, itching, and dryness, often manifesting as rashes, blisters, or scaly patches. It encompasses various subtypes, including atopic dermatitis (also known as eczema), contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis, each triggered by different factors but sharing core symptoms of skin irritation. The condition affects people of all ages and skin types, though it is not contagious and typically resolves with appropriate management, such as avoiding triggers and using topical treatments. Atopic dermatitis, the most prevalent form, is a chronic, relapsing disorder often beginning in childhood, characterized by intense itching and inflamed barriers due to genetic and environmental factors. It impacts up to 20% of children and 3% of adults worldwide, with higher rates in industrialized regions, and is associated with allergies and immune dysregulation. Contact dermatitis arises from direct exposure to irritants or allergens, divided into (from substances like soaps or chemicals damaging the skin barrier) and (an immune-mediated response to sensitizers such as or ). Contact allergies affect approximately 8% of adults, particularly in occupational settings like healthcare or hairdressing, and typically presents as an acute rash that clears within weeks upon trigger avoidance. Seborrheic dermatitis, meanwhile, targets oil-rich areas like the , face, and chest, causing flaky, greasy scales often linked to yeast overgrowth (), stress, or underlying conditions such as or . It is common across all ages, including as in infants, and affects approximately 4% of the population worldwide (as of 2024), with flares influenced by seasonal changes and immune status. Common causes across dermatitis types include , environmental exposures, impaired skin barrier function, and immune system overreactions, while symptoms universally involve pruritus (itching), (redness), and xerosis (dryness), which can lead to complications like secondary infections if scratched. Risk factors encompass family history of allergies, occupational hazards, and comorbidities like or disorders. Management focuses on moisturizing, topical corticosteroids, and identifying triggers, with severe cases potentially requiring systemic therapies or phototherapy. Overall, dermatitis significantly impacts due to its chronic nature and visible effects, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and personalized care.

Definition and Terminology

Definition

Dermatitis is a broad term encompassing various inflammatory conditions of , primarily characterized by redness, swelling, itching, and cracking of the affected areas, frequently resulting from disruption of the skin's protective barrier. This often manifests as dry, scaly patches or rashes that can ooze or crust over time, reflecting an acute or chronic response to diverse triggers. Although often used interchangeably in casual contexts, eczema represents a specific subset of dermatitis, most notably , whereas is a distinct autoimmune disorder featuring well-demarcated, plaque-like lesions with prominent silvery scaling and less emphasis on intense pruritus. Dermatitis lesions tend to be more irregularly shaped and prone to weeping, contrasting with the thicker, drier plaques typical of . In many forms of dermatitis, particularly atopic and other eczematous types, an impaired epidermal barrier plays a key pathophysiological role, compromising the stratum corneum's integrity and elevating (TEWL), thereby increasing vulnerability to external irritants, allergens, and microbial invasion. This barrier dysfunction initiates a of inflammatory responses, perpetuating dryness and sensitivity across affected subtypes.

Terminology

The term "dermatitis" derives from the Greek roots "derm-" or "derma," meaning or hide, and "-itis," denoting . In medical and lay contexts, "dermatitis" is often used synonymously with "eczema," though eczema more precisely describes a clinical pattern of inflamed, pruritic rather than a specific , while dermatitis encompasses a broader range of inflammatory conditions. The colloquial term "" is a nonspecific lay descriptor for any visible skin eruption, including those caused by dermatitis. Dermatitis is classified into stages based on clinical evolution: the acute stage features vesicles, weeping, and crusting; the subacute stage involves scaling and crusting with reduced exudation; and the chronic stage is characterized by lichenification, thickening, and fissuring due to persistent rubbing or scratching. Dermatitis specifically refers to of , while the broader term "dermatosis" encompasses any skin disorder, including inflammatory conditions like dermatitis and , as well as non-inflammatory or structural disorders like .

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

Dermatitis is characterized primarily by intense pruritus, or itching, which often initiates a vicious cycle of that exacerbates damage and perpetuates . This subjective symptom is nearly universal across forms of dermatitis and can significantly impair , prompting repeated mechanical irritation of the affected areas. Observable signs include , or redness, accompanied by leading to swelling, and the formation of vesicles or papules on surface. Excoriations from and scaling due to dryness are common, with the often appearing as dry, flaky patches that may ooze in more severe cases. Distribution patterns vary but frequently involve flexural areas such as the elbows and knees, extensor surfaces, or generalized involvement depending on the underlying type. In acute presentations, the skin may exhibit weeping, crusting, and blistering due to active , while forms show lichenification with thickened, leathery from prolonged rubbing. Associated features encompass xerosis, or excessive dryness, which compromises the barrier, and arising from fissures or cracks in the . For instance, often features a predilection for flexural distributions in children.

Complications

Dermatitis can lead to various infectious complications due to impaired skin barrier function, which facilitates microbial colonization and invasion. Bacterial superinfections are common, particularly with , which colonizes the skin in 60-90% of atopic dermatitis cases and can cause or more severe skin and soft tissue infections. Viral complications include , a disseminated infection that arises in areas of active dermatitis and can be life-threatening if untreated. Fungal superinfections, such as those involving species, may exacerbate dermatitis flares, especially in atopic forms, leading to intensified and pruritus. Chronic dermatitis often results in structural skin changes from repeated scratching or rubbing. Lichenification manifests as thickened, leathery skin with exaggerated skin markings and , commonly seen in longstanding cases. Post-inflammatory occurs as a darkening of following resolution of acute lesions, more prominent in individuals with darker skin tones. Systemic effects of dermatitis include disturbances caused by nocturnal itching, which affects up to 60% of children with and impairs overall . In pediatric patients, severe or uncontrolled is associated with linear growth impairment, potentially due to chronic inflammation, nutritional deficits, and disrupted . Psychological complications are significant, with dermatitis linked to higher rates of anxiety and stemming from chronic discomfort, visible lesions, and . Adults with have an increased risk of depressive symptoms and psychological distress compared to the general . Rare but severe complications include erythroderma, characterized by widespread affecting over 90% of the body surface, which can lead to fluid loss, thermoregulatory issues, and secondary infections; this is more frequent in severe .

Etiology

Genetic Factors

Dermatitis, particularly atopic dermatitis, exhibits a strong genetic basis, with susceptibility influenced by multiple genes affecting skin barrier function and immune regulation. Loss-of-function mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) are among the most significant genetic risk factors, impairing the skin's barrier integrity by reducing the production of filaggrin protein, which is essential for maintaining epidermal hydration and preventing allergen penetration. These mutations confer an increased risk of atopic dermatitis, with an overall odds ratio of approximately 3.12 for carriers compared to non-carriers. Genetic predisposition to also involves variants in genes encoding key cytokines of the Th2 immune pathway, such as IL4 and IL13, which promote characterized by elevated IgE production and activation. For instance, the IL13 130 Gln is associated with a of 2.5 for , enhancing Th2 responses that exacerbate skin inflammation. Inheritance patterns for are predominantly polygenic, involving numerous common variants each contributing modestly to risk, alongside a substantial heritable component evidenced by studies. Monozygotic twins show a concordance rate of 72-86% for , far exceeding the 21-23% in dizygotic twins, underscoring the genetic influence while interactions with environmental factors modulate disease expression. Rare monogenic forms of dermatitis highlight specific genetic mechanisms, such as Netherton syndrome, an autosomal recessive disorder caused by biallelic mutations in the SPINK5 gene, which encodes a inhibitor crucial for skin desquamation and barrier maintenance. These mutations lead to severe erythroderma and ichthyosis-like features resembling dermatitis, often with atopic manifestations.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of dermatitis by disrupting the skin's and triggering inflammatory responses, often in interaction with individual susceptibility. These external influences include chemical irritants, allergens, climatic conditions, occupational hazards, and nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to conditions such as irritant or . Irritants, such as soaps and detergents, are common environmental triggers that cause by directly damaging the epidermal barrier through repeated exposure. Frequent contact with these substances leads to dryness, , and fissuring, particularly in individuals with pre-existing sensitivity. For instance, water and in cleaning products erode the , increasing and inflammation. Allergens like in jewelry and fragrances in provoke via delayed-type reactions. Exposure to , often through earrings or belt buckles, sensitizes T-cells, resulting in eczematous reactions upon re-exposure, affecting up to 10-20% of the population depending on regional prevalence. Fragrances, present in and lotions, similarly elicit immune responses, with patch testing identifying them as frequent culprits in chronic cases. Climatic conditions, including low humidity and extreme temperatures, exacerbate dermatitis by impairing barrier integrity and promoting dryness. Low relative humidity, common in arid or heated indoor environments, reduces and increases susceptibility to irritants, leading to flares in atopic and . Extreme cold temperatures constrict blood vessels and slow barrier repair, while high heat can induce sweating that further irritates compromised . Occupational exposures to chemicals in sectors like healthcare and heighten dermatitis risk through prolonged with irritants and allergens. Healthcare workers face wet work from gloves and disinfectants, contributing to , while involves solvents and metals that cause similar reactions. Hairdressers, for example, experience a of up to 20% for occupational hand dermatitis due to repeated exposure to dyes, bleaches, and shampoos. Malnutrition, particularly deficiencies in and , undermines skin integrity and predisposes individuals to dermatitis-like eruptions. manifests as acrodermatitis with periorificial and acral lesions due to impaired epidermal proliferation and immune function. Essential fatty acid shortages, often in severe , result in scaly, erythematous rashes by disrupting barrier components, compounding vulnerability to environmental insults.

Role of Microbiome

The skin microbiome in atopic dermatitis (AD) is marked by dysbiosis, featuring reduced microbial diversity and a marked overgrowth of Staphylococcus aureus in lesional skin, which correlates with disease severity and barrier impairment. This pathogen dominates up to 90% of lesional sites during flares, outcompeting commensals like Staphylococcus epidermidis and Cutibacterium acnes. S. aureus forms biofilms within eccrine ducts and on the skin surface, promoting persistence, antibiotic resistance, and enhanced release of pro-inflammatory toxins via quorum sensing. The gut-skin axis further implicates microbial ecology in AD pathogenesis, with early-life alterations in gut microbiota increasing atopic risk. Infants developing AD show reduced abundance of beneficial genera such as Bifidobacterium, alongside elevations in Clostridium and Escherichia coli, which disrupt immune maturation and promote Th2-skewed responses. This dysbiosis, often evident by 3-6 months of age, precedes skin manifestations and is influenced by factors like cesarean delivery or antibiotic exposure, heightening AD susceptibility by impairing regulatory T-cell development. Microbial metabolites mediate these effects by modulating immune responses and barrier integrity. (SCFAs), such as butyrate and propionate produced by skin and gut commensals, inhibit signaling to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4 and TNF-α while enhancing proteins for barrier reinforcement. Tryptophan-derived indoles from Bifidobacterium and other symbionts activate the , promoting IL-10 production and dampening Th2 inflammation, whereas reduces these protective signals, amplifying immune dysregulation and degradation in AD lesions. This microbiome-immune interplay interacts briefly with genetic barrier defects to perpetuate disease. In seborrheic dermatitis, the skin is characterized by overgrowth of yeast species, particularly and Malassezia restricta, which hydrolyze sebum into irritant-free fatty acids, triggering inflammatory responses via toll-like receptors and release (e.g., IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α). This fungal , often in oil-rich areas, is accompanied by bacterial shifts, including increased and reduced Cutibacterium, contributing to barrier disruption, elevated pH, and trans-epidermal water loss. Genetic susceptibility and immune factors, such as impaired T-cell responses, exacerbate Malassezia colonization, with prevalence linked to conditions like or . Systematic reviews and metagenomic studies provide evidence that dysbiosis in and gut microbiomes precedes or accompanies AD flares in a majority of cases, with S. aureus dominance often detectable weeks before symptom onset. Recent investigations from 2023-2025 reveal microbiome shifts following biologic therapies, such as , which restore diversity by decreasing S. aureus load and increasing commensals, alongside probiotic interventions targeting the gut-skin axis that alleviate symptoms via SCFA elevation. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of microbiome modulation, including topical prebiotics and fecal microbiota transplants, to prevent flares and enhance .

Types of Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, is a , relapsing inflammatory characterized by intense pruritus and eczematous lesions, often associated with IgE-mediated allergic responses. It represents the most prevalent form of eczema, involving a disrupted barrier and dysregulated immune function that predispose individuals to recurrent flares. Globally, affects approximately 15-20% of children and 2-10% of adults, with prevalence rates reaching up to 20% in pediatric populations in certain regions. The condition is more common in urban environments, where environmental factors such as and changes contribute to higher incidence among both children and adults in industrialized areas. The pathophysiology of features a Th2-skewed , characterized by elevated production of cytokines like interleukin-4, -13, and -31, which drive and barrier dysfunction. Genetic defects in the gene (FLG), which encodes a key protein for epidermal barrier integrity, are particularly prevalent in this subtype, leading to impaired hydration and increased penetration. Clinically, atopic dermatitis typically presents with erythematous, pruritic lesions distributed in flexural areas such as the antecubital and popliteal fossae, particularly in older children and adults, while infants often show involvement of the face and extensor surfaces. It is associated with the atopic march, a progressive sequence where early-onset increases the risk of developing and later in life. Common triggers include food allergens, such as eggs and cow's milk, which exacerbate symptoms in up to 30% of infants with moderate-to-severe disease. In adults, aeroallergens like house dust mites and pollen are frequent precipitants, promoting flares through airborne exposure and sensitization.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition resulting from direct contact with external substances, broadly classified into two main subtypes: irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). ICD, which accounts for approximately 80% of cases, is a non-immunologic response triggered by the direct cytotoxic effects of irritants on the skin barrier, leading to inflammation without prior sensitization. In contrast, ACD is an immunologic reaction mediated by T cells, representing a type IV delayed hypersensitivity response that requires prior exposure to sensitize the immune system. These subtypes differ fundamentally in their mechanisms, with ICD involving innate immune activation and barrier disruption, while ACD depends on adaptive immunity. Epidemiologically, contact dermatitis has a lifetime of approximately 15-20% in the general , with ACD specifically affecting up to 20% of individuals at some point. Occupational contributes significantly, with contact dermatitis comprising 90-95% of occupational skin diseases and affecting an estimated 10-15% of workers in high-risk professions such as healthcare, , and . Women and individuals with a history of atopic conditions are at higher risk, though the condition spans all ages and demographics. The of ACD begins with haptenation, where small-molecular-weight allergens (haptens) penetrate the and bind to proteins, forming immunogenic complexes that are processed by Langerhans cells and presented to naïve T cells in lymph nodes. This phase leads to memory T-cell formation, and upon re-exposure, effector T cells (primarily + and +) infiltrate the , releasing cytokines like IFN-γ to induce the inflammatory response characteristic of delayed , typically manifesting 48-72 hours after . ICD, by comparison, bypasses this adaptive process, relying instead on direct release of inflammatory mediators from damaged and innate immune cells. Common allergens in ACD include metals such as , found in jewelry and fasteners; rubber compounds like in gloves; and plant-derived substances, notably from (), which causes severe reactions in sensitized individuals. These agents vary in potency, with being one of the most frequent sensitizers globally, affecting up to 15-20% of women due to jewelry exposure. Clinically, contact dermatitis presents as an eczematous eruption localized to the site of , with acute lesions featuring erythematous plaques, pruritus, and vesicles or bullae filled with clear fluid. or repeated may lead to lichenification, characterized by thickened, hyperkeratotic with accentuated skin markings due to persistent rubbing or . The distribution often follows patterns like linear streaks from plant contact or hand involvement in occupational cases, distinguishing it from more diffuse forms of dermatitis. may involve patch testing to confirm specific allergens.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by erythematous, scaly patches primarily affecting areas rich in sebaceous glands, including the , face, and upper trunk. It presents with greasy, yellowish scales and mild to moderate , often accompanied by variable pruritus that is typically less intense than in . In infants, it manifests as , featuring thick, greasy scales on the scalp that usually resolve spontaneously within the first year of life. The involves overgrowth of yeast species, which are lipophilic fungi normally present on , leading to an abnormal and in sebum-rich areas. This fungal proliferation alters skin lipid composition and triggers keratinocyte hyperproliferation, resulting in scaling and irritation. Individual susceptibility factors, such as hyperactivity and immune dysregulation, contribute to the condition's chronic, relapsing nature. Epidemiologically, seborrheic dermatitis affects approximately 4.38% of the global population, with higher prevalence in adults (5.64%) compared to children (3.70%) and neonates (0.23%). It shows bimodal peaks, occurring frequently in infancy and again in adulthood, particularly after age 40. The condition is notably more prevalent in individuals with , where rates can reach 52-59%, and in those with , with prevalence ranging from 30% in early to 85% in advanced AIDS stages. Psychological and environmental factors can exacerbate symptoms, highlighting associations with neurological and immunosuppressive states.

Other Types

Dyshidrotic dermatitis, also known as pompholyx, is characterized by the sudden onset of small, itchy vesicles and blisters on the palms, sides of the fingers, and soles of the feet. It often recurs and may be triggered by stress, although the exact etiology remains multifactorial, including and irritant exposure. This condition accounts for 5-20% of cases but is less prevalent overall. Nummular dermatitis, or discoid eczema, manifests as well-demarcated, coin-shaped (nummular) plaques that are erythematous, scaly, and intensely pruritic, typically on the or . These lesions frequently develop secondary bacterial superinfections due to scratching and skin barrier disruption, exacerbated by dry skin or environmental irritants. Its global prevalence is approximately 0.2% in the general population. Stasis dermatitis, also called venous eczema, primarily affects the lower legs and arises from , leading to , , and eczematous changes like and weeping. Poor circulation causes venous , which impairs and promotes . It has a prevalence of 6-7% among individuals over 50 years old. Dermatitis herpetiformis presents as an intensely pruritic, symmetrical eruption of vesicles and urticarial plaques, often on the elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp, with characteristic IgA deposits in the dermal papillae on . It is strongly linked to gluten sensitivity and celiac disease, where about 25% of celiac patients develop this manifestation. Neurodermatitis, or , features thickened, leathery (lichenified) plaques resulting from habitual scratching of localized itchy areas, commonly on the neck, wrists, ankles, or genitals. This condition perpetuates an itch-scratch cycle, often initiated by or minor . It affects an estimated 5-12% of adults in populations with chronic pruritus, predominantly women aged 30-50. These other types of dermatitis are less common than the primary forms, with prevalences varying from rare (e.g., dermatitis herpetiformis ~0.05%) to more significant in specific groups (e.g., stasis dermatitis 6-7% over age 50), and they often overlap with more common forms like atopic or contact dermatitis.

Diagnosis

Clinical Assessment

Clinical assessment of dermatitis begins with a detailed patient history to identify potential etiologies and patterns. Clinicians inquire about the onset and duration of symptoms, which may be acute, subacute, or chronic, helping to distinguish between types such as irritant contact dermatitis from acute exposures or atopic dermatitis with a relapsing course. Triggers are explored, including environmental factors like allergens, irritants (e.g., soaps, detergents), or stressors, as well as seasonal variations that exacerbate symptoms in up to 70% of atopic cases. Family history is crucial, given the genetic predisposition in conditions like atopic dermatitis, where a positive family history of atopy increases risk by 2-3 fold. Occupational or recreational exposures are documented to uncover contact allergens or irritants, such as nickel in jewelry or rubber chemicals in gloves. The focuses on the and of lesions to guide . Lesions are inspected for primary features like , vesicles, , or lichenification, with patterns aiding differentiation—flexural areas in versus exposed sites in . In , the Hanifin and Rajka criteria are commonly applied, requiring three major features (e.g., pruritus, typical , chronic relapsing course) and at least three minor features (e.g., xerosis, immediate test reactivity) for , with reported of 96% and specificity of 94% in validation studies. Secondary changes such as excoriations from scratching or secondary are noted, and the exam includes assessing for associated signs like Dennie-Morgan folds or in atopic cases. Patch testing may be briefly considered for suspected during this evaluation. Differential diagnosis is essential to rule out mimics, particularly with its well-demarcated plaques and silvery scales versus the ill-defined of dermatitis, or fungal infections like presenting with annular lesions and central clearing. Other considerations include with burrows and nocturnal pruritus or eruptions with a morbilliform pattern. The clinical assessment integrates these elements to formulate a provisional , emphasizing the pruritic, eczematous nature of dermatitis over other inflammatory dermatoses. Severity is quantified using validated scoring tools to monitor progression and treatment response. For atopic dermatitis, the SCORAD index assesses extent (0-100% body surface), intensity (0-18 points for six items), and subjective symptoms (0-20 points for pruritus and loss), yielding a total score from 0 to 103, where scores >50 indicate severe disease. These tools provide objective measures, with good reliability across clinicians. Referral to a dermatologist is recommended for severe, refractory cases unresponsive to initial topical therapies after 4-6 weeks, widespread involvement affecting >20% , or complications like recurrent infections. Early specialist input is also advised for atypical presentations or suspected systemic associations, such as in erythrodermic variants.

Laboratory and Histopathology

Laboratory investigations in dermatitis primarily serve to support clinical , particularly in cases of atopic or , where specific serological markers can indicate underlying immune dysregulation. In , elevated serum total (IgE) levels are observed in approximately 80% of patients, reflecting Th2-mediated allergic and sensitization to environmental allergens. Specific IgE panels, measuring allergen-specific antibodies, help identify triggers such as food or aeroallergens in extrinsic , aiding in personalized avoidance strategies. Patch testing remains the gold standard for diagnosing , involving the application of standardized extracts to the skin under occlusive patches, typically on the upper back. Readings are performed at 48 hours post-application to detect early reactions and again at 96 hours to capture delayed responses, with positive results graded from mild to vesicular eruptions indicating relevant s. Histopathological examination through reveals characteristic features across dermatitis types, confirming the inflammatory nature of the condition. Acute lesions commonly show , defined as intercellular epidermal leading to vesicle formation, accompanied by a superficial perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate with into the . In chronic dermatitis, acanthosis (epidermal thickening) and predominate alongside persistent lymphocytic infiltration, distinguishing it from acute phases. These findings must correlate with clinical presentation for accurate interpretation. Skin biopsies are indicated in atypical or refractory dermatitis presentations to exclude mimics such as cutaneous lymphoma or infections, or when clinical features suggest overlap with other inflammatory dermatoses. or shave biopsies from lesional skin provide sufficient tissue for routine hematoxylin-eosin staining and, if needed, to assess infiltrate composition. In research settings, advanced via (FLG) gene sequencing identifies loss-of-function mutations associated with impaired skin barrier function and increased susceptibility, particularly in European populations where prevalence reaches 20-30%. These mutations, such as R501X and 2282del4, disrupt processing, leading to reduced natural moisturizing factors and enhanced allergen penetration. Such sequencing informs genotype-phenotype correlations but is not routine in clinical practice.

Prevention

Lifestyle Measures

Adopting gentle skin care routines is fundamental to preventing dermatitis flares by minimizing irritation and preserving the skin barrier. Individuals should use mild, fragrance-free, non-soap cleansers that avoid dyes, alcohols, and harsh chemicals during bathing or showering, as these can strip natural oils and exacerbate dryness. Baths or showers should employ lukewarm water rather than hot, with durations limited to 5-10 minutes to prevent further drying of the skin. Regular moisturizing serves as an adjunct to these practices, helping to lock in hydration immediately after cleansing. For infants at high risk of , daily application of emollients from birth may reduce the incidence by approximately 50%, according to randomized controlled trials. Exclusive for the first 4-6 months may also lower the risk of developing in high-risk children by up to 30%. Choosing appropriate can reduce friction and irritation on affected areas. Opting for loose-fitting garments made from breathable, natural fibers such as is recommended, as these materials are less likely to trap moisture or cause compared to , , or other synthetics. fabrics, which minimize exposure to potential irritants like dyes or finishes, further support comfort and help avert flare-ups. Modifying the home environment plays a key role in controlling triggers like dryness and allergens. Using a in dry indoor settings maintains relative between 40% and 50%, countering the dehydrating effects of low moisture that can worsen dermatitis symptoms. For dust mite control, encasing mattresses, pillows, and box springs in -proof covers, along with weekly washing of in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C), effectively reduces populations and exposure, which are common flare inducers. Keeping indoor below 50% through dehumidifiers or also limits proliferation without overly drying the air. Managing is essential, as emotional can intensify ing and provoke scratching cycles that damage barrier. Techniques such as mindfulness meditation have demonstrated benefits in reducing perceived intensity and frequency by modulating responses and interrupting the urge to scratch. Practices like deep breathing or guided relaxation, integrated into daily routines, support overall skin health by lowering psychological triggers for dermatitis exacerbations. In occupational settings, protective measures are crucial for those exposed to irritants, such as chemicals or wet work. Wearing appropriate s—such as cotton-lined or varieties—when handling potential triggers significantly reduces direct skin contact and the incidence of . Selecting types that avoid allergens like rubber accelerators ensures they do not inadvertently cause new sensitivities. For prevention, identifying and avoiding specific irritants or allergens through patch testing is recommended. For seborrheic dermatitis, maintaining good in oil-rich areas and managing may help prevent flares, though evidence is limited.

Dietary Approaches

Dietary approaches to preventing dermatitis focus on nutritional strategies that support and modulate immune responses, particularly in , though evidence is mixed and not routinely recommended in guidelines. Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) found in , have been investigated for their properties. Supplementation with omega-3 has shown potential to reduce disease severity in children with , as evidenced by improvements in clinical symptoms and barrier integrity. A (RCT) demonstrated that omega-3 supplementation led to significant reductions in SCORAD scores, a validated measure of severity, compared to . Probiotics, particularly strains of Lactobacillus such as L. rhamnosus, administered during infancy, may lower the risk of developing atopic dermatitis in high-risk children, though results vary and are not conclusive. Meta-analyses of RCTs indicate that early probiotic supplementation can reduce the incidence of eczema by approximately 30-35% in certain subgroups, likely by promoting a balanced gut microbiome that influences immune development and allergic sensitization. This preventive effect is most pronounced when probiotics are given perinatally to mothers and continued in infants, though benefits vary by strain and population, and major guidelines do not recommend routine use. In cases of confirmed food allergies, dietary avoidance of specific triggers is a cornerstone of prevention. For instance, eliminating dairy products in individuals with cow's milk protein can prevent exacerbations of atopic or systemic , as these foods may provoke immune-mediated skin reactions. Such targeted elimination should be guided by allergy testing to avoid unnecessary restrictions. Low serum levels of have been linked to greater severity of , with observational studies showing correlations between deficiency and heightened or barrier dysfunction. Some RCTs suggest supplementation may reduce severity in deficient individuals, but evidence for prevention is limited. is more prevalent in patients and may contribute to impaired skin repair, though RCTs show mixed results for supplementation in mitigating flares, and further research is needed. Overall, while some evidence from RCTs supports adjunctive benefits of these dietary interventions in improving SCORAD scores in high-risk or deficient populations, major guidelines emphasize measures over routine supplementation due to inconsistent results. A balanced diet rich in foods may provide general benefits.

Management

Non-Pharmacological Treatments

Non-pharmacological treatments form the cornerstone of dermatitis , focusing on restoring , alleviating symptoms, and preventing exacerbations without relying on medications. These approaches are particularly emphasized for mild to moderate cases and as adjuncts in more severe presentations, aiming to reduce , itching, and risk through physical and behavioral interventions. Emollients and moisturizers are essential for maintaining hydration and repairing the defective epidermal barrier in dermatitis, especially . Ceramide-based formulations, which mimic the 's natural , have demonstrated superior efficacy in restoring barrier integrity compared to standard petrolatum-based products. Clinical trials indicate that applying these emollients twice daily can prolong the time to flare-ups and significantly decrease the requirement for topical corticosteroids, with one reporting up to a 50% reduction in steroid usage among participants using proactive emollient therapy. This approach not only hydrates the but also reduces , leading to improved symptom control and quality of life. Wet wrap therapy involves applying emollients or dilute topical agents followed by occlusive damp dressings over affected areas, particularly during acute flares of severe dermatitis. This method enhances penetration of hydrating agents, provides a cooling effect to soothe pruritus, and promotes rapid symptom relief, with studies showing an average 71% reduction in eczema severity scores within days of initiation. Evidence from studies supports its use for short-term control in moderate to severe cases, noting sustained improvement for up to a month post-treatment, though it requires careful monitoring to avoid or secondary infections. Bathing therapies, such as dilute baths, offer a targeted strategy for prevention in dermatitis prone to bacterial , like overgrowth. Prepared by adding half a of household to a full standard of lukewarm water (approximately 0.005% concentration), these baths are recommended 2-3 times weekly for 10 minutes, followed by thorough rinsing and emollient application. Meta-analyses indicate that baths can reduce disease severity, though recent reviews find no additional benefit over plain water baths; they may exert effects rather than direct action, making them a safe option for recurrently infected cases. Behavioral interventions, including (HRT), address the itch-scratch cycle that perpetuates dermatitis lesions. HRT teaches awareness of scratching triggers, competing response techniques (e.g., clenching fists or applying pressure), and relaxation strategies, typically delivered in 6-8 sessions by trained therapists. Randomized controlled trials demonstrate that HRT significantly lowers scratching frequency and improves skin status, with one study reporting notable reductions in pruritus and lesion severity after 3 weeks when combined with standard . Overall, these non-pharmacological strategies have been shown in multiple trials to halve the need for corticosteroids by enhancing and breaking maladaptive behaviors.

Pharmacological Interventions

Pharmacological interventions for dermatitis primarily involve topical and systemic agents aimed at reducing , , and microbial overgrowth, with selection guided by severity, type, and factors. Topical corticosteroids remain the cornerstone for managing acute flares across various dermatitis types, including atopic and , due to their potent anti-inflammatory effects. Low-potency options like (1%) are preferred for sensitive areas such as the face and regions to minimize side effects like skin , while mid- to high-potency agents such as betamethasone or are used for thicker skin areas in moderate-to-severe cases. Long-term use is limited to intermittent application to avoid adverse effects, with clinical guidelines recommending the lowest effective potency for the shortest duration. Calcineurin inhibitors, such as (0.03% or 0.1% ointment) and (1% cream), offer steroid-sparing alternatives for maintenance therapy in , particularly on the face and eyelids where corticosteroids pose higher risks. These agents inhibit T-cell activation, reducing without causing thinning, and are effective for both short- and long-term control in moderate cases. For seborrheic dermatitis, topical antifungals like (2% shampoo or cream) target yeast overgrowth, leading to significant improvement in scaling and when applied twice weekly. (1% shampoo) provides similar efficacy and is often used as an adjunct to corticosteroids for involvement. Systemic therapies are reserved for severe, refractory dermatitis unresponsive to topicals. Antihistamines, particularly sedating H1 blockers like hydroxyzine (25-50 mg at bedtime), alleviate nocturnal itch and improve sleep in , though evidence for broad benefits is limited. Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine (3-5 mg/kg/day orally) are effective for short-term control in severe , achieving substantial symptom reduction within 2-4 weeks, but require monitoring for renal toxicity and due to . Biologic therapies have transformed management of moderate-to-severe . , an interleukin-4 and -13 inhibitor, was approved by the FDA in 2017 and demonstrates sustained clearance in up to 40% of patients at 52 weeks when administered subcutaneously (300 mg every two weeks). Tralokinumab, another IL-13 blocker approved in 2021, similarly reduces disease severity with a favorable safety profile for long-term use. Topical (JAK) inhibitors like cream (1.5%), approved in 2021, provide rapid relief and improvement in non-immunocompromised patients aged 12 and older. Recent advancements from 2023 to 2025 include additional targeted therapies. Oral JAK inhibitors such as (100-200 mg daily, approved 2021) and (15-30 mg daily, approved 2021) offer high efficacy, with studies showing up to 60-70% reduction in flare rates during maintenance compared to . (IL-13 , approved 2023) and nemolizumab (IL-31 for , approved 2024) further expand options for biologic-naive patients. cream (1%, Vtama), an agonist approved by the FDA in December 2024 for mild to severe in adults and children aged 2 years and older, offers once-daily application with efficacy in reducing and . cream (0.05%, Zoryve) was approved in October 2025 for in children aged 2 to 5 years. Delgocitinib cream (20 mg/g, Anzupgo), a topical JAK , was approved in July 2025 for chronic in adults, providing an option for irritant or variants. For seborrheic dermatitis, foam (0.3%, a PDE4 approved 2023) effectively clears and body lesions with once-daily application. These agents prioritize and pathways for precise . topicals like licorice extract may serve as adjuncts in mild cases, though evidence is preliminary.

Light Therapy and Alternatives

Light therapy, particularly narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy, serves as an established non-pharmacological option for managing moderate to severe , often inducing remission through its anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Administered typically three times per week for several weeks, NB-UVB has demonstrated efficacy in achieving significant symptom reduction, with studies reporting remission rates around 70-80% in responsive patients, alongside a favorable safety profile for short-term use. For cases resistant to NB-UVB or topical therapies, plus A (PUVA) photochemotherapy may be employed, involving oral or topical followed by UVA exposure two to three times weekly, which has shown marked improvement in by modulating immune responses. Complementary alternatives to include topical botanicals, such as licorice extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra), which exhibits properties due to compounds like glycyrrhetinic acid, reducing , , and ing in mild when applied as a 2% . represents another adjunctive approach, with systematic reviews indicating potential benefits in alleviating and severity through modulation of reactions, though evidence remains limited by small sample sizes and methodological inconsistencies. Nutritional supplements offer further alternatives, particularly vitamin D supplementation for individuals with confirmed deficiency, as meta-analyses have linked low serum levels to worsened severity, with targeted dosing improving clinical scores via enhanced skin barrier function and immune regulation. Evening primrose oil, rich in , has yielded mixed results in randomized controlled trials, with some showing modest reductions in and pruritus, while larger reviews conclude it performs no better than overall. Despite these benefits, risks associated with include premature skin aging, such as wrinkling and dryness from cumulative UV exposure, alongside a potential long-term increase in non-melanoma risk. alternatives carry concerns for herb-drug interactions, including licorice extract's potential to potentiate effects or alter balance when combined with systemic medications. Evidence gaps persist for most alternatives, as they often lack large-scale, high-quality randomized trials, limiting their recommendation to mild cases or as adjuncts to conventional care, with benefits most evident in targeted, deficient populations.

Prognosis

Outcomes and Factors

The short-term outcomes of dermatitis vary by type but are generally favorable with prompt initiation. For , approximately 80% of patients with moderate-to-severe disease achieve a clinically meaningful response, such as a 75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75), within 16 weeks of systemic therapies like . Topical corticosteroids and inhibitors also yield rapid improvement in mild cases within 2-4 weeks, reducing symptoms like pruritus and . In the long term, the disease course varies; for , many cases of childhood onset improve or resolve by . Studies indicate that 50-70% of affected children experience significant remission by age 12-16, though persistence into adulthood occurs in approximately 20-40% of cases, often with fluctuating severity. Factors such as disease onset after infancy and milder initial presentation correlate with higher remission rates, while severe or persistent childhood symptoms increase the likelihood of lifelong disease. Prognostic factors play a key role in determining resolution or persistence. Early intervention with emollients and anti-inflammatory treatments can help prevent flares and support , and consistent adherence to is associated with better and reduced flares. Genetic predispositions, including loss-of-function mutations in the (FLG) gene, confer a poorer , predisposing individuals to earlier onset, greater severity, and prolonged into adulthood. For other types, contact dermatitis typically has an excellent prognosis, resolving completely within weeks to months upon avoidance of the irritant or . Seborrheic dermatitis follows a chronic, relapsing course but can be effectively controlled with ongoing topical treatments, with good long-term outcomes in most cases. Atopic dermatitis substantially impairs quality of life, as measured by the (DLQI), a validated 10-item assessing the impact on daily activities, symptoms, and emotional over the past week. Scores range from 0 (no ) to 30 (severe ), with moderate-to-severe often yielding DLQI scores above 10, indicating significant burden comparable to other chronic conditions like . Mortality directly attributable to dermatitis is rare, with overall rates remaining low even in severe cases. However, secondary bacterial or infections, such as those complicating , can lead to life-threatening complications in vulnerable populations, including infants or immunocompromised individuals, though effective treatments have reduced associated fatality to under 1%.

Epidemiology

Global Prevalence

Dermatitis encompasses several inflammatory skin conditions, with (AD) being the most prevalent form globally. Contact dermatitis affects approximately 20% of people over their lifetime, while seborrheic dermatitis impacts 1-10% of the . Recent estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021 indicate that AD affected approximately 129 million people worldwide in 2021, up from 107 million in 1990, representing a significant portion of the overall dermatitis burden. This highlights the condition's widespread impact, though age-standardized rates have slightly decreased. Prevalence varies markedly by age and region, with AD affecting 15-30% of children and 2-10% of adults globally. In industrialized nations, rates are notably higher; for instance, up to 20% of children experience AD, compared to around 5% in rural areas of . The condition is rising in developing countries, where urbanization contributes to increased incidence, as observed in regions like , , and . The economic burden of underscores its global scale, with annual costs in the United States estimated at approximately $5.3 billion as of 2015, covering direct medical expenses and indirect losses such as productivity impacts. Total cases increased by 20% from 1990 to 2021, while age-standardized prevalence rates slightly decreased, per GBD data. Dermatitis exhibits distinct patterns across age groups, with predominantly manifesting in infancy and childhood, while tends to peak in adulthood. Approximately 90% of cases onset before the age of 5 years, often beginning between 2 and 6 months of life, reflecting the condition's strong association with early-life immune and barrier dysfunction. In contrast, shows a higher incidence among adults, particularly those aged 45 to 65 years, where occupational and environmental exposures accumulate over time. Sex-based differences are notable in , where females experience higher rates, largely attributable to greater use of and personal care products containing allergens such as fragrances and preservatives. For , prevalence is generally similar between sexes, though some studies indicate a slight female predominance in adulthood, potentially linked to hormonal influences rather than inherent disease disparities. Ethnic variations influence susceptibility, with showing a 1.7-fold higher compared to white individuals, driven in part by variants in barrier-related genes such as filaggrin-2 (FLG2), which are associated with more persistent disease. These genetic factors highlight how ancestry-specific mutations in barrier proteins contribute to elevated in certain populations. plays a critical role, as urban poor communities face heightened dermatitis rates due to increased environmental exposures like and allergens, alongside disparities in healthcare access that exacerbate disease management. Lower socioeconomic conditions correlate with urban rates up to 25%, compared to 15% in rural areas, underscoring the impact of substandard living environments. Climate change contributes to rising cases of in regions, where elevated temperatures and amplify barrier disruption and exposure to irritants like sweat and pollutants. This environmental shift particularly affects vulnerable populations in areas with high climatic hazards, such as coastal .

History

Etymology

The term "dermatitis" derives from the Greek roots derma (δέρμα), meaning "," and -itis (-ῖτις), denoting "," forming a compound word that literally translates to " of the ." This medical Latin first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, with etymonline.com citing 1851, reflecting the era's growing systematic classification of cutaneous disorders. In ancient and medieval texts, similar skin conditions were described using broader, less specific terms, such as "tetter," an word (from Proto-Germanic *tetraz) applied to various eruptive diseases characterized by scaly, itchy rashes, including what modern recognizes as eczema or ringworm. Biblical references, such as in Leviticus 13, employed "tetter" or equivalents to denote scaly eruptions as signs of ritual impurity, highlighting early cultural associations of such afflictions with or . The modern adoption of "dermatitis" aligned with advancements in during the early , particularly through the work of English physician Robert Willan, who in 1817 (via his collaborator Thomas Bateman) applied related terminology to eczematous conditions in his seminal classification of skin diseases. A closely related term, "eczema," often used interchangeably in historical contexts with certain forms of dermatitis, originates from the Greek verb ekzein (ἐκζέω), meaning "to boil over" or "to erupt," evoking the blistering and vesicular appearance of affected skin. This etymology underscores the descriptive nature of early medical nomenclature for inflammatory dermatoses.

Historical Milestones

The earliest descriptions of dermatitis-like conditions date back to ancient civilizations. Around 400 BCE, the Greek physician , often regarded as the father of modern medicine, documented chronically itchy, dry, and scaly skin rashes, attributing them to imbalances in bodily humors such as bile or phlegm. These observations laid foundational groundwork for recognizing pruritic dermatoses, though treatments remained rudimentary, involving herbal poultices and dietary adjustments. Similarly, ancient Egyptian texts like the from over 3,000 years ago described inflamed skin lesions treated with mixtures of onions, milk, and salt, indicating early empirical approaches to managing such conditions. In the , advancements in brought more systematic classification. Ferdinand von Hebra, a pioneering Viennese dermatologist, in the 1850s and 1860s, classified skin diseases based on pathological , distinguishing eczema as a distinct entity characterized by vesicular and exudative lesions, separate from other pruritic conditions like his described "constitutional prurigo." This histopathological approach revolutionized dermatological taxonomy and emphasized eczema's inflammatory nature. Concurrently, Alexander Ogston's identification of in 1880 from abscesses and wound infections highlighted the role of secondary microbial infections in exacerbating dermatitis, influencing and practices in treatment. The marked transformative milestones in both understanding and therapy. In 1933, dermatologists Fred Wise and Marion Sulzberger introduced the term "" to describe an inherited, allergen-associated form of eczema, shifting focus toward immunological and genetic factors over purely external irritants. The isolation of in 1948 by Edward Kendall and colleagues, initially for , rapidly extended to ; by the early 1950s, topical applications dramatically improved eczema management by suppressing , establishing corticosteroids as a cornerstone therapy. Genetic insights advanced further in 2006 with the discovery of loss-of-function mutations in the (FLG) gene by Frances J.D. Smith, W.H. Irwin McLean, and colleagues, linking impaired skin barrier function to susceptibility and explaining its association with . In the 2010s, clinical trials of , a targeting IL-4 and IL-13 pathways, demonstrated significant efficacy in moderate-to-severe cases, paving the way for biologic therapies and underscoring the cytokine-driven pathogenesis. Building on this, the 2020s saw further therapeutic advancements, including FDA approvals of (JAK) inhibitors such as and in 2021 for moderate-to-severe , and IL-13 inhibitor in 2022, expanding targeted systemic options for patients unresponsive to topicals. Historically, research emphasized atopic and allergic mechanisms, with comparatively less exploration of the skin microbiome's role until the late .

Research

Current Studies

Recent studies have advanced understanding of the immunological mechanisms underlying , particularly the roles of Th2 and Th17 pathways in driving . highlights the Th2 pathway's dominance through cytokines like IL-4 and IL-13, alongside Th17 involvement via IL-17, with varying co-expression of Th1 modules in different subsets. New monoclonal antibodies target these pathways more precisely; for instance, galvokimig, a bispecific antibody inhibiting both Th2 (IL-13) and Th17 (IL-17A/F) signaling, demonstrated efficacy in a 2025 phase 1 trial for moderate-to-severe , achieving significant improvements in disease severity scores. Similarly, nemolizumab, targeting IL-31 (linked to Th2/Th17-driven ), completed phase 3 trials in 2024 showing reduced pruritus and skin lesions, while OX40-OX40L inhibitors advanced to phase 3, addressing co-stimulatory signals in Th2 activation. Microbiome-focused trials have explored interventions to modulate skin and dysbiosis in . A 2024 and of randomized controlled trials on topical reported substantial reductions in SCORAD scores, with individual studies showing up to 56% improvement in severity compared to after 4 weeks, alongside decreased colonization. Oral supplementation also yielded benefits; a 2025 found significant lowering of disease severity (mean difference in SCORAD: -12.3 points) and improved quality-of-life scores in adults, attributing effects to immune modulation via the gut-skin axis. A 2024 consensus further endorsed as for managing flares, particularly strains in moderate-to-severe cases. Genetic research has identified over 100 susceptibility loci for through large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A 2024 multi-ancestry pinpointed 101 genomic loci associated with the condition, including 15 novel ones, explaining approximately 30% of and highlighting shared with other allergic diseases. These findings emphasize epidermal barrier genes (e.g., FLG) and immune pathways, with ancestry-specific loci emerging in African-descent populations, such as two new linked to higher risk. Epidemiological updates from 2023 to 2025 have linked post-COVID-19 to increased flares and new-onset disease. A 2023 large reported a higher incidence of following SARS-CoV-2 , with adjusted hazard ratios indicating elevated risk persisting up to six months post-recovery. Subsequent 2025 analyses found that 30-43% of patients experienced flares within one month of , often necessitating escalation, potentially due to viral-induced immune dysregulation. Research on other dermatitis types has also progressed. In , 2025 studies highlight emerging allergens like (MI) in consumer products, with updated patch testing guidelines emphasizing early identification to prevent occupational exposures; prevalence remains around 20% in screened populations. For seborrheic dermatitis, recent genomic profiling reveals distinct immune polarization from , involving Th1/Th17 skewing and interactions, while clinical trials of topical foam (0.3%) demonstrate efficacy in reducing scalp and facial symptoms in adults. These developments address prior gaps in pre-2020 data by incorporating updated global burden assessments. The 2024 Global Report on ranks the condition as the leading skin by disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and 15th among non-fatal diseases, with rising in children and adolescents. A 2025 Global Burden of trend analysis confirmed a 20% increase in cases since 1990, underscoring the need for targeted interventions in high-burden regions, with current estimates indicating over 200 million people affected worldwide as of 2021.

Future Directions

Research into microbiome therapeutics for dermatitis is advancing toward engineered bacteria designed to repair the skin barrier. These approaches involve modifying commensal skin microbes, such as Roseomonas mucosa, to colonize the and produce anti-inflammatory compounds that restore barrier integrity in (AD) patients. A phase 1 randomized evaluating a commensal microbe for bacteriotherapy in AD demonstrated safety and preliminary efficacy in reducing colonization and improving symptoms, with ongoing expansions into phase 2 studies anticipated by late 2025. Future multimodal therapies targeting both and gut microbiomes could address underlying more comprehensively, potentially preventing flares through sustained microbial balance. Personalized medicine in dermatitis is poised to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for risk prediction by integrating genetic and microbiome data. AI models trained on multi-omics datasets, including genomic variants and microbial profiles, can forecast AD susceptibility and treatment responses with high accuracy, enabling tailored interventions such as targeted probiotics or gene-specific therapies. For instance, machine learning classifiers analyzing skin lesion transcriptomes and microbiome compositions have achieved up to 90% accuracy in predicting AD risk from early-life samples. Interpretable AI tools using techniques like SHAP values further identify key gut flora dysregulations associated with AD progression, guiding precision strategies that account for individual variability. Novel biologics targeting interleukin-31 (IL-31) represent a promising avenue for alleviating in dermatitis, with expanded approvals on the horizon. Nemolizumab, an , received FDA approval in December 2024 for patients 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe AD when added to topical therapies, showing significant pruritus reduction; ongoing phase 3 trials are evaluating its use in younger children (ages 2-11) and combination regimens, with regulatory approvals expected in 2026 for broader pediatric indications. These inhibitors address the neuroimmune pathway directly, potentially transforming management for refractory cases where current therapies fall short. Preventive vaccines and early-life interventions offer hope for curtailing onset. Neonatal with Calmette-Guérin (BCG) has been linked to an 11-12% reduction in eczema incidence through age 5, by modulating immune responses and enhancing skin barrier development via epigenetic changes. Emerging tailored vaccines targeting staphylococcal toxins, which exacerbate AD flares, are in preclinical stages and could provide prophylactic protection in high-risk infants by neutralizing bacterial superantigens during critical windows of immune maturation. Key challenges in advancing dermatitis research include integrating impacts and ensuring . Rising temperatures and pollutants are projected to worsen AD severity by disrupting and increasing exposure, necessitating studies on adaptive therapies for climate-vulnerable populations. Disparities in to biologics and interventions persist across socioeconomic and racial lines, with pharmacoequity initiatives advocating for policy reforms to subsidize costs and expand diversity. Addressing these gaps through inclusive research frameworks will be essential for equitable future innovations.

References

  1. [1]
    Dermatitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
    May 2, 2025 · Dermatitis is a common condition that causes swelling and irritation of the skin. It has many causes and forms and often involves itchy, dry skin or a rash.Contact dermatitis · Seborrheic dermatitis · Types of dermatitis · Cradle cap
  2. [2]
    Eczema types: Atopic dermatitis overview
    Oct 10, 2023 · Also called eczema, atopic dermatitis is a condition that causes itchy, dry, and inflamed skin, which usually begins in childhood.Stasis dermatitis · Symptoms · Treatment · Coping
  3. [3]
    Atopic dermatitis: global epidemiology and risk factors - PubMed
    AD affects up to 20% of children and up to 3% of adults; recent data show that its prevalence is still increasing, especially in low-income countries. First ...
  4. [4]
    Contact dermatitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
    May 2, 2024 · Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. The rash isn't contagious, ...Overview · Symptoms · Causes
  5. [5]
    Overview: Allergic contact dermatitis - InformedHealth.org - NCBI - NIH
    Feb 1, 2024 · Allergic contact dermatitis (sometimes simply called “contact allergies”) is different, though. Here the immune system overreacts to certain substances.
  6. [6]
    Seborrheic dermatitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
    Jul 19, 2024 · Seborrheic dermatitis causes a rash of oily patches with yellow or white scales. The rash may look darker or lighter in people with brown or Black skin and ...Diagnosis and treatment · Seborrheic dermatitis of the...
  7. [7]
    Seborrheic dermatitis: Overview - American Academy of Dermatology
    Dec 6, 2022 · What is seborrheic dermatitis? This is a common skin condition that causes a scaly rash on oily areas of the body like the scalp and face.
  8. [8]
    Dermatitis: Types, Treatments, Causes & Symptoms - Cleveland Clinic
    Dermatitis is a general term for conditions that cause inflammation of the skin. Examples include atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis and seborrheic ...
  9. [9]
    Psoriasis vs Eczema: What's The Difference?
    Oct 6, 2025 · Atopic dermatitis is another name for eczema, so the differences are the same as eczema vs psoriasis. Psoriasis tends to be thicker, red or ...
  10. [10]
    Skin Barrier Dysfunction in Chronic Dermatoses
    Jun 28, 2025 · Overly sensitive sebaceous glands and an overactive immune system can disrupt skin renewal and weaken the skin barrier in areas with high oil ...
  11. [11]
    Pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis: Clinical implications - PMC
    Impairment of skin barrier function at birth and at 2 months, as evaluated by transepidermal water loss (TEWL), can precede clinical AD by 12 months of age.
  12. [12]
    History of dermatology: the study of skin diseases over the centuries
    Dermatology underwent an intense process of historical formation and transformation, following the evolution of contemporary medicine. The knowledge of the ...
  13. [13]
    Historical Perspectives on Atopic Dermatitis: Eczema Through the ...
    The term atopic dermatitis was not coined until the early 20th century. Many diseases typical of this condition were reported using a variety of eponyms and ...
  14. [14]
    Dermatitis - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
    word-forming element meaning "of or pertaining to skin," from Greek dermat-, from derma "(flayed) skin, leather," from PIE root *der- "to split, flay, peel,"
  15. [15]
    Dermatitis: Types and treatments - DermNet
    The terms dermatitis and eczema are often used interchangeably. All eczema is a dermatitis, but not all dermatitis is eczema.Atopic dermatitis · Seborrhoeic dermatitis · Hand dermatitis · Asteatotic eczema
  16. [16]
    Eczema and Dermatitis: Differences, Similarities, Types - Healthline
    Dec 11, 2024 · People often use the terms eczema and dermatitis interchangeably, but “dermatitis” is a broader term that encompasses more than eczema rashes.
  17. [17]
    Atopic dermatitis (eczema) - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
    May 15, 2024 · Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It's common in young children but can occur at any age.Atopic dermatitis behind the... · Diagnosis and treatment · Mayo Clinic Minute
  18. [18]
    Atopic Dermatitis: An Overview - AAFP
    Jul 1, 2012 · Acute atopic dermatitis presents with a vesicular, weeping, crusting eruption (Figure 2). Subacute atopic dermatitis presents with dry, scaly, ...
  19. [19]
    Dermatitis. Overview - DermNet
    Stages of dermatitis · Acute dermatitis · Subacute dermatitis · Chronic dermatitis · Lichen simplex · Prurigo · Autosensitisation dermatitis.
  20. [20]
    Dermatosis - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
    Dermatitis is a nonspecific term that denotes an inflammatory skin rash characterized by primary changes of erythema, scaling, and exudates.
  21. [21]
    Dermatoses: Causes, Treatments, and More - Healthline
    Any condition affecting the skin could be categorized a dermatosis. This doesn't include skin conditions that involve inflammation (that would be dermatitis).
  22. [22]
    Contact Dermatitis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory eczematous skin disease. It is caused by chemicals or metal ions that exert toxic effects without inducing a T-cell ...
  23. [23]
    Overview of dermatitis - Summary of relevant conditions
    Feb 4, 2022 · Common manifestations include erythema, scaling, vesicles, itching, and lichenification where there is chronic inflammation. Each type of ...
  24. [24]
    Filaggrin gene mutations with special reference to atopic dermatitis
    Indeed, the strength of association between FLG and AD is exceptionally high for a complex disease, with the overall odds ratio determined to be 3.12 (95% CI ...
  25. [25]
    Genetic variants of the IL13 and IL4 genes and atopic diseases in at ...
    In 288 white children, the IL13 130Gln allele was associated with atopy (RR=1.9, P=0.047), and with atopic dermatitis (RR=2.5, P=0.014). The associations were ...
  26. [26]
    Genetics in Atopic Dermatitis: Historical Perspective and Future ...
    May 15, 2020 · ... genetic component is to study twins. These studies have shown a concordance rate of 72–86% in monozygotic twins and 21–23% in dizygotic ...<|separator|>
  27. [27]
    Netherton syndrome plus atopic dermatitis: Two new genetic ... - NIH
    Nov 25, 2021 · Netherton syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease due to a biallelic mutation of serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 5 gene (SPINK5).
  28. [28]
    Environmental risk factors and their role in the management of ...
    Intrinsic barrier dysfunction can be worsened when environmental factors such as soap and detergent cause further epidermal barrier breakdown, and irritants and ...
  29. [29]
    Environmental exposures and chronic inflammatory dermatoses - NIH
    Allergens, such as nickel and fragrances found in jewelry and personal care products, significantly contribute to inflammatory dermatoses like atopic dermatitis ...
  30. [30]
    Contact dermatitis - Causes - NHS
    Irritant contact dermatitis may be caused by frequent exposure to a weak irritant, such as soap or detergent. It may also develop if you've been in contact with ...Missing: environmental | Show results with:environmental
  31. [31]
    Contact Dermatitis: Symptoms, Causes, Types & Treatments
    Common allergens include jewelry metals (like nickel), cosmetic products, fragrances and preservatives. It can take several days after exposure for an itchy ...
  32. [32]
    The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier ...
    We conclude that low humidity and low temperatures lead to a general decrease in skin barrier function and increased susceptible towards mechanical stress.
  33. [33]
    The impact of temperature on the skin barrier and atopic dermatitis
    A number of studies have concluded that both cold and hot temperatures affect skin homeostasis and barrier function and promote the development of AD.
  34. [34]
    Occupational Hand Dermatitis - PMC - NIH
    Feb 7, 2023 · Irritant contact dermatitis due to wet work exposure is the most common cause of occupational hand dermatitis. Healthcare workers, hairdressers, ...
  35. [35]
    A Main Risk Factor for Occupational Hand Dermatitis - ScienceDirect
    The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of wet-work occupational dermal exposure and the subsequent adverse health effects, thereby providing a ...
  36. [36]
    The Prevalence of Hand Eczema and Its Determinants Among ...
    Previous studies showed that hairdressers are at the highest risk of occupational dermatitis, and it is estimated that 10-20% of hairdressers are affected by ...
  37. [37]
    Acrodermatitis Enteropathica - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare skin disorder associated with zinc deficiency that is most often seen in infants.
  38. [38]
    Skin findings associated with nutritional deficiencies
    Oct 1, 2016 · This article reviews the consequences of deficiencies of zinc and vitamins A, B 2 , B 3 , B 6 , and C, emphasizing dermatologic findings.
  39. [39]
    Essential Fatty Acid Deficiency - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
    Some children with protein-energy malnutrition develop a scaly rash due to a deficiency of zinc and essential fatty acids [29]. The rash disappears within ...
  40. [40]
  41. [41]
    Skin microbiome dysbiosis and the role of Staphylococcus aureus in ...
    This review summarizes the latest data on targeting skin microbiome dysbiosis and S. aureus over-colonization to treat AD in adults and children.
  42. [42]
    Staphylococcal Biofilms in Atopic Dermatitis - PubMed
    Oct 23, 2017 · S. aureus biofilms have been found to colonize the eccrine ducts of AD skin, and these biofilms influence secretion of keratinocyte cytokines ...
  43. [43]
    Microbiome in the Gut-Skin Axis in Atopic Dermatitis - PMC - NIH
    The gut microbiome might play a crucial role in the development of AD by regulating immune system maturation through cross-talk between the microbiome and the ...
  44. [44]
    Gut microbiota modulation: a key determinant of atopic dermatitis ...
    Apr 27, 2025 · Bifidobacterium longum mediated tryptophan metabolism to improve atopic dermatitis via the gut-skin axis. Gut Microbes 14:2044723. doi ...
  45. [45]
    Bacterial Metabolites and Inflammatory Skin Diseases - PMC - NIH
    Aug 17, 2023 · This review aims to summarize the knowledge of wealth surrounding bacterial metabolites of the skin and gut and their role in immune homeostasis ...2. Discussion · 2.1. Cutaneous Microbiome In... · 2.2. Gut Microbiome In...
  46. [46]
    Gut Dysbiosis and Adult Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review - PMC
    Dec 24, 2024 · The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether differences exist between the GM of adults with AD and that of healthy adults (gut dysbiosis).
  47. [47]
    Atopic Dermatitis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    Atopic dermatitis (AD), which is a specific form of eczema, is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease.Atopic Dermatitis · Pathophysiology · Treatment / Management<|control11|><|separator|>
  48. [48]
    Atopic dermatitis: diagnosis, molecular pathogenesis, and therapeutics
    Oct 6, 2025 · Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by acute and chronic phases with no definitive cure currently ...
  49. [49]
    The global, regional, and national burden of atopic dermatitis in 195 ...
    Nov 30, 2020 · For example, the prevalence of adult AD was 4.9% in the United States and 2.1% in Japan. The prevalence of AD in children is as high as 20% in ...
  50. [50]
    Epidemiology and Characterization of Atopic Dermatitis in East ... - NIH
    There is a rising prevalence of both pediatric and adult AD in Asian populations worldwide, particularly in Asians living in urban areas.
  51. [51]
    Type 2 Inflammation Contributes to Skin Barrier Dysfunction in ...
    Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic pruritic inflammatory skin disease, whose pathogenesis is mediated by interactions between skin barrier impairment and an ...The Skin Barrier · Sc Protein Components · Systemic MedicationsMissing: pathophysiology | Show results with:pathophysiology<|control11|><|separator|>
  52. [52]
    Atopic Dermatitis: A Disease of Altered Skin Barrier and Immune ...
    Complex pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis including barrier and immune abnormalities. ... Filaggrin mutations that confer risk of atopic dermatitis ...
  53. [53]
    Atopic Dermatitis: Disease Features, Therapeutic Options, and a ...
    Jun 20, 2023 · Atopic dermatitis (AD) is predominantly characterized by eczema, dry skin, and itching (Figure 1) [1,2,3,4,5]. These symptoms are age-dependent ...
  54. [54]
    The Atopic March: Progression from Atopic Dermatitis to Allergic ...
    The development of atopic dermatitis (AD) in infancy and subsequent allergic rhinitis and asthma in later childhood is known as the atopic march.
  55. [55]
    Natural history of food triggered atopic dermatitis and development ...
    Foods have been shown to be a trigger in about 20–30% cases of moderate-to-severe AD (5–8). Food allergens are more likely to cause eczema in infants and ...
  56. [56]
    The Role of Airborne Proteins in Atopic Dermatitis - PMC - NIH
    The most common airborne proteins significant in atopic dermatitis include house dust mites, cockroach, pet dander, and multiple pollens.
  57. [57]
    Itch in Allergic Contact Dermatitis - PMC - PubMed Central
    Oct 4, 2021 · Irritant contact dermatitis represents 80% of all contact dermatitis cases. It can occur after a single exposure to an irritant or toxic ...
  58. [58]
    Allergic Contact Dermatitis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    The pathophysiology of allergic contact dermatitis starts with the contact of the allergen to the skin. This allergen penetrates that stratum corneum of the ...Continuing Education Activity · Introduction · Etiology · Pathophysiology
  59. [59]
    Advancing the understanding of allergic contact dermatitis - NIH
    May 22, 2023 · In the acute phase, it is characterized by eczematous dermatitis, which presents with erythema, edema, vesicles, scaling, and intense itch. Non- ...
  60. [60]
    Allergic Contact Dermatitis Remains Prevalent, Negatively Impacts ...
    Apr 7, 2025 · “The prevalence of ACD has been reported to be as high as 20% in the general population, with 5-10% experiencing clinical symptoms at least once ...
  61. [61]
    The epidemiology of occupational contact dermatitis (1990–2007): a ...
    May 28, 2009 · Contact dermatitis (CD) is the most common occupational skin disease (OSD) in Western countries, and represents approximately 90–95% of all OSD.
  62. [62]
    Allergic Contact Dermatitis - Medscape Reference
    Jul 2, 2024 · These include nickel, preservatives, dyes, and fragrances. Poison ivy. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is the classic example of acute ...
  63. [63]
    Cytokines and Chemokines in Irritant Contact Dermatitis - PMC
    Irritant contact dermatitis is a result of activated innate immune response to various external stimuli and consists of complex interplay which involves skin ...
  64. [64]
    Contact Dermatitis | Johns Hopkins Medicine
    Many chemical agents can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Nickel, chrome, and mercury are the most common metals that cause contact dermatitis: Nickel is ...
  65. [65]
    Allergic Contact Dermatitis Clinical Presentation
    Jul 2, 2024 · Acute allergic contact dermatitis is characterized by pruritic papules and vesicles on an erythematous base. Lichenified pruritic plaques may ...
  66. [66]
    Seborrheic Dermatitis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common inflammatory skin disease presenting with a papulosquamous morphology in areas rich in sebaceous glands, particularly ...
  67. [67]
    An Overview of the Diagnosis and Management of Seborrheic ... - NIH
    Aug 6, 2022 · Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that mostly affects young adults in areas rich in sebaceous glands ...
  68. [68]
    Eczema versus seborrheic dermatitis: how to tell the difference
    Other difference: Eczema is always itchy, whereas seborrheic dermatitis isn't necessarily (particularly in infants).
  69. [69]
    The Global Prevalence of Seborrheic Dermatitis - PubMed
    Aug 1, 2024 · Importance: Seborrheic dermatitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disease, yet its global prevalence, pathogenesis, and epidemiology ...Missing: pathophysiology | Show results with:pathophysiology<|control11|><|separator|>
  70. [70]
    Skin disorders in Parkinson's disease: potential biomarkers and risk ...
    Mar 9, 2017 · Seborrhea has been associated with PD, with a prevalence as high as 52%–59%. In 1927, Krestin reported seborrheic facies as a cutaneous ...
  71. [71]
    Dyshidrotic Eczema: A Common Cause of Palmar Dermatitis - PMC
    Oct 7, 2020 · The exact prevalence of DE is unknown but it accounts for approximately 5-20% of the causes of hand eczema [1]. The exact cause of DE has ...
  72. [72]
    Nummular Dermatitis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    Mar 1, 2024 · Plaques may be exudative, lichenified, or superimposed on varicosities. Asteatotic eczema: Also known as eczema craquelé, this condition ...
  73. [73]
    Nummular Eczema as the Initial Extrahepatic Manifestation of ...
    Aug 4, 2025 · The global prevalence of nummular eczema is approximately 0.2% in the general population, with a slightly higher incidence in men and a greater ...Missing: causes | Show results with:causes
  74. [74]
    Stasis Dermatitis: An Overview of Its Clinical Presentation ...
    Feb 17, 2023 · Chronic scratching due to itching can also result in skin thickening and lichenification [1, 17]. Brown speckles (hyperpigmentation), the ...
  75. [75]
    Narrative Review of the Pathogenesis of Stasis Dermatitis - NIH
    Mar 22, 2023 · Stasis dermatitis is a skin disease that affects the legs, most often of older people, with chronic venous insufficiency. Chronic venous ...
  76. [76]
    A case report of inadequately treated acute deep venous thrombus ...
    Stasis dermatitis has a prevalence of 6–7% in patients over 50 years of age, affecting a significant portion of the elderly population (2).
  77. [77]
    Dermatitis Herpetiformis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH
    The disease is closely associated with gluten-sensitive enteropathy (GSE); both conditions are characterized by the development of IgA autoantibodies against ...
  78. [78]
    Lichen Simplex Chronicus - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf
    Lichen simplex chronicus is defined as a common form of chronic neurodermatitis that presents as dry, patchy areas of skin that are scaly and thick.
  79. [79]
    Lichen Simplex Chronicus Itch: An Update - PMC - PubMed Central
    LSC is a highly prevalent condition, affecting an estimated 12% of the general population, and is particularly prevalent in middle-aged patients between the ...Missing: symptoms | Show results with:symptoms
  80. [80]
    Targeting IgE Antibodies by Immunoadsorption in Atopic Dermatitis
    Feb 18, 2018 · One major hallmark of the disease is the elevated level of total serum IgE in approximately 80% of AD patients. In fact, AD patients mount IgE ...
  81. [81]
    Targeting immunoglobulin E in atopic dermatitis - PubMed Central
    Mar 19, 2021 · This review highlights the role of IgE in atopic dermatitis (AD), a common, chronic, and complex skin inflammation, and the available therapeutic approaches ...
  82. [82]
    European Society of Contact Dermatitis guideline for ... - PubMed
    The present guideline summarizes all aspects of patch testing for the diagnosis of contact allergy in patients suspected of suffering, or having been suffering,
  83. [83]
    My approach to superficial inflammatory dermatoses - PMC - NIH
    Superficial dermal oedema with a perivascular lymphocytic inflammatory cell infiltrate is usually present. Exocytosis of the inflammatory cells is present, and ...
  84. [84]
    Skin biopsy in the diagnosis of inflammatory skin disease - RACGP
    Pathologists typically approach a skin biopsy by identifying a 'tissue reaction pattern' (eg spongiotic dermatitis, interface dermatitis, panniculitis).
  85. [85]
    Atopic dermatitis (eczema) - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
    May 15, 2024 · Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatments of this itchy rash that most often begins before age 5, is persistent, and has periods of ...Diagnosis · Treatment · Lifestyle And Home Remedies
  86. [86]
    Atopic dermatitis: Self-care - American Academy of Dermatology
    Keep temperature and humidity levels comfortable. Avoid situations in which the air is extremely dry, or where your child may sweat and overheat. This is the ...Missing: lifestyle | Show results with:lifestyle
  87. [87]
    Learn More – Skin care for eczema - InformedHealth.org - NCBI
    Feb 11, 2021 · Use warm water (not too hot). Hot water can make the itching worse and irritate your skin. Don't bathe or shower for more than 5 to 10 minutes.
  88. [88]
    Nummular eczema self-care - American Academy of Dermatology
    Mar 15, 2021 · Self-care can help clear your skin and prevent flare-ups · Apply moisturizer every day year-round. · Use baths, showers, and handwashing to ...Missing: lifestyle | Show results with:lifestyle
  89. [89]
    The Future of Functional Clothing for an Improved Skin and Textile ...
    Research has found that wool and synthetic fibres, such as polyester and nylon, can worsen atopic dermatitis symptoms [41,44,45]. Cotton, however, is a ...
  90. [90]
    Nummular eczema diagnosis and treatment
    Mar 15, 2021 · Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Avoid sitting next to a fireplace, heater, or other source of heat. Use a humidifier in your bedroom so ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  91. [91]
    How can I find indoor eczema triggers?
    Place dust mite covers on your child's pillows and mattress. Wash your child's bedding weekly in hot water. Use a fragrance-free, dye-free laundry detergent.
  92. [92]
    Environmental assessment and exposure control of dust mites
    Mites require RH higher than 65% to prevent water loss and to thrive. Once humidity decreases below 50%, mite proliferation decreases and survival is decreased.Missing: humidifiers | Show results with:humidifiers
  93. [93]
    Potential role of mindfulness in the adjuvant treatment of atopic ... - NIH
    Using MR, recent studies have shown that meditation can deactivate these areas of the brain and prevent the itchy sensation from becoming overwhelming while ...
  94. [94]
    Psychoneuroimmunology of Psychological Stress and Atopic ...
    Psychological stress is associated with flares of itching in AD. The itch sensation, with urge to scratch, is a significant source of continued psychological ...
  95. [95]
    Hand dermatitis risk factors among clinical nurses in Japan - PubMed
    The use of hand cream was associated with a 50% reduction in HD risk (OR 0.5). In this study, we found that Japanese clinical nurses suffer a significant ...
  96. [96]
    Interventions for preventing occupational irritant hand dermatitis - PMC
    Different preventive measures such as protective gloves, barrier creams and moisturisers can be used, but it is not clear how effective these are.
  97. [97]
    Omega 3 Fatty Acid and Skin Diseases - PMC - PubMed Central
    The intake of omega-3 supplement improves the Scoring in Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) score (116). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial showed ...
  98. [98]
    Review of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Dietary Supplementation in ...
    Aug 27, 2025 · Supplementation with O3FAs led to a significant clinical improvement of severity scoring of atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) compared to baseline ...
  99. [99]
  100. [100]
    Lactobacillus rhamnosus Used in the Perinatal Period for the ...
    Sep 26, 2022 · The use of L. rhamnosus with or without other probiotics appears to have a positive effect in reducing the incidence of atopic eczema in pediatric patients at ...
  101. [101]
    Diet and Dermatitis: Food Triggers - PMC - NIH
    Of these, 43 percent were immediate reactions, 45 percent were immediate symptoms followed by late eczematous reactions, and 12 percent were late eczematous ...
  102. [102]
    Controversies in allergy: food testing and dietary avoidance in atopic ...
    Thus, food-triggered atopic dermatitis is unlikely in adults. Regarding other allergic diseases, children with early onset, severe and persistent AD, and ...
  103. [103]
    Lack of iron, zinc, and vitamins as a contributor to ... - PubMed Central
    Increased severity of atopic dermatitis was associated with significantly lower levels of serum vitamin D, which was also reported by others (195, 196) ( ...Missing: flares | Show results with:flares
  104. [104]
  105. [105]
    A systematic review and meta‐analysis of nutritional and dietary ...
    May 23, 2024 · It included 27 RCTs of interventions that aimed to improve AD symptoms, as evaluated using the SCORAD score or another scoring system converted ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  106. [106]
    Dietary Interventions in Atopic Dermatitis - PubMed Central - NIH
    No statistically significant improvement in mean SCORAD scores between treated and placebo group, SCORAD, Grüber et al. [89] (2007). Treated [19.6±15.4] versus ...
  107. [107]
    Atopic Dermatitis: A Review of Diagnosis and Treatment - PMC
    Dec 9, 2024 · Atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as atopic eczema, is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder characterized by dry skin, localized erythematous ...
  108. [108]
    Atopic dermatitis (eczema) guidelines: 2023 American ... - PubMed
    Dec 18, 2023 · These evidence-based recommendations address optimal use of (1) topical treatments (barrier moisturization devices, corticosteroids, ...
  109. [109]
    Topical treatments for atopic dermatitis (eczema): Systematic review ...
    For individuals with AD, pimecrolimus, tacrolimus, and moderate-potency TCS are among the most effective in improving and maintaining multiple AD outcomes.Missing: pharmacological | Show results with:pharmacological
  110. [110]
    Ketoconazole Shampoo for Seborrheic Dermatitis of the Scalp - NIH
    Aug 22, 2024 · Numerous trials display significant improvement in irritation and scaling of scalp seborrheic dermatitis (SSD) with ketoconazole shampoo ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  111. [111]
    Use of H-1 Antihistamine in Dermatology: More than Itch and ... - NIH
    This article summarizes the published reports on use of antihistamines for purposes other than itch and urticaria control in dermatological practice
  112. [112]
    The effects of treatment on itch in atopic dermatitis - PubMed Central
    In 2000, a systematic review of 21 studies found that there are no RCTs demonstrating that sedating antihistamines have any clinical benefit in treating AD.
  113. [113]
    Cyclosporin in the treatment of patients with atopic eczema - PubMed
    In all studies analysed, cyclosporin consistently decreased the severity of atopic eczema. Twelve studies appeared homogeneous enough to be pooled.
  114. [114]
    Systemic Treatment of Adult Atopic Dermatitis: A Review - PMC - NIH
    Dec 26, 2016 · Cyclosporine is the most widely used agent, administered with excellent effects as short-term treatment as well as maintenance therapy in both ...
  115. [115]
    Anti-inflammatory and biologic drugs for atopic dermatitis - NIH
    The aim of this review is to update knowledge on the standard of care and recent advancements in the control of skin inflammation. In light of recent guidelines ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  116. [116]
    Comparison of Old and New Systemic Treatments for Moderate to ...
    Apr 18, 2024 · Newer medications for AD including dupilumab, tralokinumab, lebrikizumab, and oral JAK inhibitors have been shown to be safe and efficacious.Missing: pharmacological | Show results with:pharmacological
  117. [117]
    Treatment of atopic dermatitis: Recently approved drugs ... - PubMed
    Jan 8, 2024 · We give an update on new approvals, long-term safety, and efficacy. Upadacitinib and abrocitinib have the highest short-term efficacy among the approved ...
  118. [118]
    Results from the JAK1 Atopic Dermatitis Efficacy and ... - PubMed
    The flare probability during maintenance was 18.9%, 42.6%, and 80.9% with abrocitinib 200 mg, abrocitinib 100 mg, and placebo, respectively. Among patients with ...Missing: percentage | Show results with:percentage
  119. [119]
    Systemic Immunomodulatory Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis
    Sep 1, 2024 · In this living systematic review and network meta-analysis, lebrikizumab was similarly effective to dupilumab for the short-term treatment of atopic dermatitis ...Missing: pharmacological | Show results with:pharmacological
  120. [120]
    Spotlight on Biologic Therapies for Atopic Dermatitis at AAD 2025
    In September 2024, the FDA approved lebrikizumab for adults and children aged 12 years and older.4 Nemolizumab was approved in December 2024 for use in patients ...Missing: pharmacological | Show results with:pharmacological<|control11|><|separator|>
  121. [121]
    Roflumilast and the Changing Landscape of Seborrheic Dermatitis ...
    Jul 10, 2025 · Conclusion: Roflumilast is effective in treating seborrheic dermatitis. Future trials should compare its safety and efficacy with other drugs.Missing: pharmacological | Show results with:pharmacological
  122. [122]
    Pharmacological Trends in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis
    Jul 11, 2024 · This comprehensive review explores current pharmacological trends in the management of AD, focusing on emerging therapies that target specific immunological ...
  123. [123]
    Management of atopic dermatitis: safety and efficacy of phototherapy
    Due to its high efficacy, application of NB-UVB often achieves rapid clinical remission and overcomes the oncogenic risk as a result of reduced exposure.
  124. [124]
    Efficacy and safety of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy for ...
    NB-UVB phototherapy led to a complete response (CR) in 24 (80%) patients while partial response (PR) was achieved in 6 (20%) patients.
  125. [125]
    The efficacy of phototherapy in treatment of resistant Atopic dermatitis
    Patients and Methods: 13 patients with resistant atopic dermatitis, older than 10 years, were treated with PUVA, 2 or 3 times a week until complete recovery or ...
  126. [126]
    The treatment of atopic dermatitis with licorice gel - PubMed
    Two percent licorice topical gel was more effective than 1% in reducing the scores for erythema, oedema and itching over two weeks (p<0.05). The results showed ...
  127. [127]
    New Herbal Biomedicines for the Topical Treatment of ... - NIH
    The root of licorice contains many different biologically active compounds [7]. The steroid saponin β-glycyrrhetinic acid is the best studied anti-inflammatory ...
  128. [128]
    Acupuncture for atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta ...
    Acupuncture holds promise as a viable treatment option for atopic dermatitis. This review aimed to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on atopic dermatitis.
  129. [129]
    Effect of acupuncture in eczema: An overview of systematic reviews
    Acupuncture is effective in the treatment of atopic dermatitis without adverse reactions. However, the existing evidence level is low, requiring more large ...
  130. [130]
    Meta-analysis Vitamin D and atopic dermatitis: A systematic review ...
    The meta-analysis of these data indicate that vitamin D supplementation may help ameliorate the severity of AD and can be considered as a safe and tolerable ...
  131. [131]
    Vitamin D and the Development of Atopic Eczema - PMC - NIH
    Observational studies have indicated a link between vitamin D status and eczema outcomes, including lower serum vitamin D levels associated with increased ...Missing: zinc | Show results with:zinc
  132. [132]
    Evening primrose oil is effective in atopic dermatitis: A randomized ...
    In the present study, we found evening primrose oil (as a source of GLA) to be an effective and safe oral medication in the management of AD.
  133. [133]
    The dark side of the light: Phototherapy adverse effects - ScienceDirect
    Acute and long-term adverse effects, of variable severity, include skin erythema, xerosis, pruritus, blistering, altered pigmentation, photoaging, and ...
  134. [134]
  135. [135]
    Use of Dupilumab in 543 Adult Patients With Moderate-to-Severe ...
    Apr 19, 2022 · The EASI-50, EASI-75, and EASI-90 response rates were 98.1%, 81.5%, and 50.8% after 16 weeks. At 16 weeks, 93.0% of the patients had achieved a ...
  136. [136]
    Atopic Dermatitis: Diagnosis and Treatment - AAFP
    May 15, 2020 · Pruritus, the most common and burdensome symptom of atopic dermatitis, is usually associated with erythematous, scaly lesions of varying ...
  137. [137]
    Persistence of atopic dermatitis (AD): A systematic review and meta ...
    Aug 17, 2016 · Overall, the results suggest that early onset AD does tend to “burn out” and improve by adulthood. However, children with later onset, more ...
  138. [138]
    Prognosis of Preschool Eczema and Factors of Importance for ...
    In the pooled analysis, 80% of childhood eczema had remitted 8 years after diagnosis and more than 95% had remitted 20 years after diagnosis.
  139. [139]
    Null mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) determine major ... - PubMed
    Our data conclusively demonstrate that identification of FLG null alleles is an indicator of a poor prognosis in AD, predisposing to a form of eczema that ...
  140. [140]
    Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) - DermNet
    It is comprised of 10 questions that aim to measure the health-related quality of life in adult patients with skin diseases.
  141. [141]
    Counting the Burden: Atopic Dermatitis and Health-related Quality of ...
    The burden of atopic dermatitis on children and adults is extensive and there is also significant impact on the lives of patient caregivers and family members.
  142. [142]
    Atopic eczema in adulthood and mortality: UK population–based ...
    The excess risk of death in patients with severe atopic eczema was highest for deaths due to infections, respiratory disease, and diseases of the genitourinary ...
  143. [143]
    future is now: the Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas (GADA)
    Aug 11, 2023 · ... affecting approximately 225 million people worldwide, particularly children.1–3 Various topical and systemic therapies have recently been ...
  144. [144]
    Atopic dermatitis: A global health perspective - Faye - 2024
    Dec 27, 2023 · Despite this fact, this study shows that at least 171 million individuals were affected with AD in 2019, corresponding to 2.23% of the world ...
  145. [145]
    Eczema Statistics - National Eczema Association
    Chronic hand eczema: The lifetime prevalence of chronic hand eczema has been estimated to be 14.5% of the general population.
  146. [146]
    Where Is Eczema Most Common in The World? - Healthline
    Feb 21, 2025 · Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is most common in high income, industrialized countries. ... African and Asian descent, may experience higher rates ...
  147. [147]
    The global, regional, and national burden of atopic dermatitis in 195 ...
    However, studies have shown increasing prevalence in certain countries, especially in developing countries, such as Chile, Kenya, and Algeria., In ...
  148. [148]
    Review The Burden of Atopic Dermatitis: Summary of a Report for ...
    A conservative estimate of the annual costs of atopic dermatitis in the United States is $5.297 billion (in 2015 USD). People with atopic dermatitis may change ...
  149. [149]
    A trend analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
    Jun 19, 2025 · Global trends in atopic dermatitis. Globally, the prevalence of AD reached 129 million (95% uncertainty interval (UI): 123.9–134.2) in 2021, ...
  150. [150]
    Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: Background, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    AD may occur in people of any age but often starts in infants aged between 2 and 6 months. Approximately 90% of patients with AD experience the onset of disease ...
  151. [151]
    Contact Dermatitis – Epidemiological Study - PMC - NIH
    The distribution of cases of contact dermatitis by age groups indicates that the most affected by the condition were the age groups ranging from 46 to 74 ...
  152. [152]
    Gender differences in allergic contact dermatitis to common allergens
    Dec 18, 2023 · Females exhibited significantly more positive reactions to nail cosmetics than males. Conversely, males had a higher percentage of positive ...
  153. [153]
    Novel systemic treatments in atopic dermatitis: Are there sex ...
    The fact that AD affects both sexes with only a slight female predominance could indicate that sex and the associated hormonal differences are not key drivers ...
  154. [154]
  155. [155]
    Prevalence and Risk Factors of Atopic Dermatitis in Urban vs. Rural ...
    Lower socioeconomic status, often linked to poor living conditions and limited access to healthcare, has been associated with a higher risk of developing AD.
  156. [156]
    Impact of climate change on dermatological conditions related to ...
    Jan 29, 2018 · Climate change contributes to the increase ... Inflammatory conditions including irritant contact dermatitis are among the leading dermatological ...
  157. [157]
    Impact of climate change on atopic dermatitis: A review by the ...
    Jan 24, 2024 · As an example, a drop in temperature and humidity impairs skin barrier function and increases reactivity to skin irritants and allergens as well ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  158. [158]
    Tetter - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
    tetter(n.)​​ vague name for skin diseases characterized by scabby eruption or scaling (ringworm, eczema, herpes), Middle English teter, from Old English teter, ...
  159. [159]
    Topical Bible: Tetter
    Tetter is a term historically used to describe various skin diseases characterized by itching and eruptions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or ringworm.
  160. [160]
    The Origin of Eczema and the Centuries-Old History Behind It
    Mar 6, 2023 · Eczema's origin story follows a similar path: ground-breaking treatments built upon years of questions, trials and errors and revolutionary breakthroughs.
  161. [161]
    Eczema - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
    Originating in 1753 from Greek ekzema, meaning "something thrown out by heat," the word refers to a fiery pustule on the skin, derived from roots meaning ...
  162. [162]
  163. [163]
    Robert Koch (1843-1910) and dermatology on his 171st birthday
    In addition, he developed staining methods, as well as culturing and microscopic techniques. Many of his achievements have also influenced dermatology. This ...
  164. [164]
    The history of atopic dermatitis - PubMed
    This definition was based on atopy, a term first created by Arthur Coca (1875-1959) and Robert Cooke (1880-1960) in 1923, when they recognized an association ...
  165. [165]
    History of the development of corticosteroid therapy - PubMed
    Oct 21, 2011 · In 1948 the first patient with rheumatoid arthritis was treated with cortisone and soon thereafter other rheumatologic patients received ...
  166. [166]
    Breaking the (un)sound barrier: filaggrin is a major gene for atopic ...
    We have recently shown that loss-of-function mutations in the filaggrin gene, carried by about 10% of people of European ethnicity, cause ichthyosis vulgaris.
  167. [167]
    Dupilumab Treatment in Adults with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic ...
    Jul 10, 2014 · We performed randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving adults who had moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis despite treatment with topical ...
  168. [168]
    The history of atopic dermatitis - ScienceDirect
    Fred Wise (1881-1950) and Marion Sulzberger (1895-1983) are often credited with introducing the term atopic dermatitis to dermatology in 1933.
  169. [169]
    Immune modules to guide diagnosis and personalized treatment of ...
    Dec 18, 2024 · Our findings demonstrate varying degrees of subdominant co-expression of Th1 and Th17 modules alongside the dominant Th2 pathway in atopic ...
  170. [170]
    UCB announces successful first-in-patient trial for galvokimig in ...
    Sep 18, 2025 · It is designed to selectively inhibit two distinct and separate inflammatory pathways, Th2 (via IL-13) and Th17 pathways (via IL-17A/F), that
  171. [171]
    Advancing Therapeutic Strategies in Atopic Dermatitis - MDPI
    Monoclonal antibodies targeting OX40-OX40L are currently advancing through phase 3 trials, and nemolizumab has shown favorable results in phase 3 studies ...
  172. [172]
    Topical Probiotics Reduce Atopic Dermatitis Severity: A Systematic ...
    Sep 23, 2024 · This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to determine the efficacy of topical probiotic treatment for AD in adult populations.
  173. [173]
    [PDF] Effects of Probiotic Supplementation in Adults with Atopic Dermatitis
    Aug 5, 2025 · Probiotics, with their use of the gut-skin axis, are an emerging adjunct treatment by controlling immune effects and facilitating dermal health.
  174. [174]
    [PDF] Delphi Consensus Statement on the Role of Probiotics in the ...
    Jul 15, 2024 · It suggests that probiotics could be useful as an adjuvant therapy in the management of AD and associated flare-ups when used along with ...
  175. [175]
    Multi-ancestry Genome-Wide Association Meta-Analysis Identifies ...
    We report 101 genomic loci associated with AD, including 15 loci that have not been previously associated with AD or eczema.
  176. [176]
    Study Uncovers 2 Gene Loci Linked to African Ancestry and Eczema ...
    Experts at Cincinnati Children's report finding two ancestry-specific gene loci that affect atopic dermatitis (AD) susceptibility among people with African ...
  177. [177]
    Large cohort study shows increased risk of developing atopic ...
    Jul 20, 2023 · Large cohort study shows increased risk of developing atopic dermatitis after COVID‐19 disease - Schmitt - 2024 - Allergy - Wiley Online ...
  178. [178]
    Impacts of COVID-19 infection and vaccination on adults with atopic ...
    Sep 6, 2025 · In this study, we found that nearly 30% of AD patients reported a disease flare within a month after COVID-19 infection. In an Italian ...
  179. [179]
    [PDF] global-report-on-atopic-dermatitis-2024.pdf
    In October 2022, the ILDS published the first global report on AD, that included a summary of disease burden, geographical gaps in prevalence data, currently ...
  180. [180]
    Global disease burden from 1990 to 2021 and future trends
    From 1990 to 2021, cases of AD, CD, and urticaria rose steadily. In 2021, AD prevalence reached 129 million, a 20.02% increase from 1990.
  181. [181]
    Skin microbiome engineering: Challenges and opportunities in skin ...
    Mar 28, 2025 · “Development of a Human Skin Commensal Microbe for Bacteriotherapy of Atopic Dermatitis and Use in a Phase 1 Randomized Clinical Trial.
  182. [182]
    Advances in Microbiome‐Based Therapeutics for Dermatological ...
    Dec 6, 2024 · Future research into multimodal microbiome therapies targeting both skin and gut microbiomes could be crucial in addressing underlying causes ...
  183. [183]
    Accurate diagnosis of atopic dermatitis by combining transcriptome ...
    Jan 7, 2022 · Using these data of 161 subjects including AD patients and healthy controls, we trained a machine learning classifier to predict the risk of AD.
  184. [184]
    Interpretable machine learning algorithms reveal gut microbiome ...
    Machine learning models combined with SHAP could be used to quantitatively screen key gut flora in atopic dermatitis patients.
  185. [185]
    Galderma initiates two new clinical trials investigating nemolizumab ...
    Jun 25, 2025 · Maruho Obtained Regulatory Approval for Mitchga, the first Antibody Targeting IL-31 for Itching Associated with Atopic Dermatitis. Available ...
  186. [186]
    The role of nemolizumab in the treatment of atopic dermatitis for the ...
    Thus, nemolizumab inhibits IL-31 signaling, which relieves pruritus. Nemolizumab is approved to treat pruritus in prurigo nodularis, based on positive phase 3 ...Missing: expected | Show results with:expected
  187. [187]
    Neonatal BCG Vaccination Decreases Eczema Incidence at 5 years
    Jul 31, 2025 · We previously reported that neonatal vaccination with Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) reduces the incidence of eczema by 12% (95% confidence ...
  188. [188]
    Eczema: New vaccine may help treat children with skin condition
    May 8, 2024 · Researchers say a new "tailored" vaccine shows promise in treating eczema flares caused by a certain bacteria in children.<|separator|>
  189. [189]
    Climate Conditions, Weather Changes, and Air Pollutants and ...
    Jun 25, 2025 · Additionally, temperature extremes were associated with increased atopic dermatitis severity. Meaning The study results suggest that there is a ...
  190. [190]
    Pharmacoequity in Allergy-Immunology: Disparities in Access ... - NIH
    Feb 1, 2025 · Pharmacoequity is the principle that individuals should have access to high quality medications regardless of race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or ...
  191. [191]
    VIDEO: Exploring health equity in atopic dermatitis - Healio
    Apr 1, 2025 · VIDEO: Exploring health equity in atopic dermatitis · VIDEO: Exciting future research directions in atopic dermatitis include microbiome, diet.