Atopic Dermatitis in Infants and Young Children

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic, relapsing, inflammatory skin disorder and may be the initial step of the so-called atopic march. This chapter describes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of AD in infants and young children. Although clinically indistinguishable, AD has been categorized into an immunoglobulin E (IgE) associated form and a non-IgE-associated form. Diagnosis of AD is based on clinical features. A complete allergy investigation is required in patients with moderate to severe AD or a history of exacerbation after food ingestion. The younger the age of onset and the more severe the rash, the more likely foods are to trigger AD in children. Although there is no cure for AD, the goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms, prevent exacerbations, minimize side effects, and provide adequate psychological support.