Dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin, typically characterized by itchiness, redness and a rash.
Atopic Dermatitis (also known as Eczema) usually first presents in infancy and can affect 1 in 5 children. Any age can be affected however, with an estimated 1 in 10 adults having Atopic Dermatitis. It is non- contagious skin disease and can present as acute or chronic.

Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but it’s thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body’s immune system to an irritant. Common causes include:
-
- Family history
- Immune system dysfunction
- Skin infection
- Dry skin
- Exposure to food, airborne, or contact allergens
- Stress
Types of Dermatitis:
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Contact dermatitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Stasis Dermatitis
Treatment and prevention:
The treatment for Atopic Dermatitis varies depending on the cause, and can include the following:
- Moisturisers
- Topical treatments such as corticosteroid creams, anti-inflammatory creams, gels or ointments
- Barrier creams
- Anti-fungal medications
- Avoiding triggers
Atopic dermatitis is a long-term condition that will continually flare up and then subside, over the course of a patient`s life. The key to managing the symptoms is to use the right emollient and treatment on a consistent basis to help protect the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
