Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease accompanied by dryness, itching, and periodic flare-ups. It often develops in childhood, but it can persist or even appear for the first time in adults.
Why Atopic Dermatitis Occurs
It is not simply a skin problem, but a complex disorder linked to the immune system and the skin’s protective barrier.
In atopic dermatitis, the skin becomes more sensitive to external irritants and allergens, leading to persistent inflammation. The disease has a wave-like course – periods of improvement are followed by flare-ups, which can significantly impact quality of life.
- The development of atopic dermatitis is based on a combination of several factors. One of the key elements is genetic predisposition – if there are allergic diseases in the family, the risk increases significantly.
- The disruption of the skin’s protective barrier plays a vital role. Because of this, the skin loses moisture, becomes dry, and is more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.
Other contributing factors include:
• allergens (dust, animal dander, food products);
• infections;
• stress;
• climate factors;
• climate factors.
In this process, the immune system overreacts, which triggers chronic skin inflammation.
Symptoms
The main symptoms are skin dryness and intense itching, which can be constant or worsen at night.
The following appear on the skin:
Symptoms
Redness
Rashes
Areas of scaling (peeling)
Cracks
Skin thickening (in chronic cases)
Itching often leads to scratching, which can cause skin damage and secondary infections. In children, rashes are more often localized on the face and flexor surfaces (folds), while in adults, they appear on the neck, hands, and the crooks of elbows and knees. A characteristic feature is a long-term, recurring course and increased skin sensitivity to external factors.
Atopic dermatitis can be part of the so-called “atopic march”—a condition where other allergic diseases, such as bronchial asthma or allergic rhinitis, may join over time. A specific feature of atopic dermatitis is its chronic nature and the need for constant skin care even during periods of remission. Additionally, the disease can significantly affect not only physical health but also psychological comfort due to the persistent itching and visible skin changes.
Diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis
The diagnosis is established based on the clinical picture and medical history. The doctor assesses the nature of the rashes, their location, duration, and the frequency of flare-ups.
It is important to consider:
✔ heredity;
✔ presence of comorbid allergic diseases;
✔ reaction to external factors;
✔ lifestyle and skin care routines.
In some cases, additional examinations may be conducted to rule out other diseases or identify an allergic component. Diagnosis is based on a comprehensive approach. It includes a doctor’s examination, symptom analysis, and, if necessary, laboratory tests.
The following may be used:
✔ blood tests;
✔ allergy tests;
✔ skin prick tests.
Modern allergology also utilizes advanced diagnostics, which allow for determining sensitivity to various allergens and assessing the state of the immune system. This helps not just to confirm the diagnosis, but to understand the cause of flare-ups.
Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis cannot be cured once and for all, but it can be effectively controlled.
- Treatment includes: constant skin care, moisturizing and restoring the skin barrier, anti-inflammatory therapy, a proactive strategy to reduce recurrences.
In complex cases, hormonal agents or biological drugs that reduce inflammation may be used. Eliminating or minimizing provoking factors is also of great importance.
Prevention
Prevention is aimed at reducing the frequency of flare-ups and maintaining the skin in a stable condition.
Key recommendations:
❀ regular skin moisturizing;
❀ use of gentle care products;
❀ avoiding aggressive irritants;
❀ controlling air humidity levels;
❀ following individual recommendations from a doctor.
Atopic dermatitis requires a systematic approach. Proper care, timely diagnosis, and individually selected treatment allow for a significant reduction in symptoms and an improved quality of life.
Allergist doctors at AirDOC who specialize in the treatment of atopic dermatitis
The specialists of the clinic specialize in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, conduct research, attend international conferences, practices and training, in order to bring modern and effective methods of treatment to Ukraine.
Prices
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Allergist
Consultation
Comprehensive consultation by a specialist of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 400 uah
Allergological consultation (with the participation of a professor / leading specialist / specialist)
3 900 uah
Consultation before ASIT
600 uah
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Comprehensive consultation with a doctor of the highest category
1 500 uah
Comprehensive consultation of a leading specialist, candidate of medical sciences
1 700 uah
Comprehensive consultation of an expert, doctor of medical sciences, professor
2 4000 uah
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