[Atopic dermatitis in children and adults]

Acta Med Croatica. 2011;65(2):87-96.
[Article in Croatian]

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by itching and typical clinical features, depending on patient age. It is often associated with other atopic diseases such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, resulting from the complex etiology and pathogenesis. It occurs more frequently in people with genetic predisposition for atopic diseases. The intensity and extent of skin lesions (Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis, SCORAD Index) vary significantly among AD patients, depending on whether it is acute or chronic, and there are variations in laboratory parameters, especially immune. In the future, it will be necessary to reach consensus on the new criteria for defining AD instead of the old ones (brought by Hanifin and Rajka 31 years ago). What is needed is effective and safe treatment, and control of the early stages of AD as well as maintaining AD remission. The new therapeutic approach in AD has greatly improved the quality of life of AD patients. As the prevalence of the disease continues to increase, we emphasize the importance of prevention, prompt recognition and optimal treatment of the many patients with AD.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / diagnosis
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / drug therapy
  • Dermatitis, Atopic* / pathology
  • Humans