ATOPIC DERMATITIS, ECZEMA, ALLERGY, DIAGNOSIS, SKIN TESTS, TREATMENT

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic pruritic inflammatory skin disease with typical pattern of eruption, which varies with age (1). AD occurs during the first year of life in 60% and before the age of 5 years in at least 85% of affected children (2). In adults with atopic dermatitis, only 16,8% had onset after adolescence. Sensitization to different allergens is often seen in patients with AD, but the role of allergy is a target for discussion. Food allergens are more important in children, inhalant allergens – in adults. Skin prick tests, measurement of serum specific IgE are used to diagnose a true IgE-mediated sensitization. The atopy patch test is of interest for the diagnosis of some patients.