Atopic Dermatitis (cont.)
How common is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is very common worldwide and increasing in prevalence. It affects males and females equally and accounts for
10%-20 % of all referrals to dermatologists (doctors who specialize in the care and
treatment of skin diseases). Atopic dermatitis occurs most often in
infants and children, and its onset decreases substantially with age.
Scientists estimate that 65% of patients develop symptoms in the
first year of life, and 90% develop symptoms before the age of 5.
Onset after age 30 is less common and often occurs after exposure of the skin
to harsh conditions. People who live in urban areas and in climates with
low humidity seem to be at an increased risk for developing atopic dermatitis.
About 10% of all infants and young children experience symptoms of
the disease. Roughly 60% of these infants continue to have one or more
symptoms of atopic dermatitis even after they reach adulthood. This means
that more than 15 million people in the United States have symptoms of the disease.
What causes atopic dermatitis?
The cause of atopic dermatitis is not known, but the disease seems to result from a combination of genetic (hereditary) and environmental factors. There seems to be a basic hypersensitivity and an increased tendency toward itching. Evidence suggests that the disease is associated with other so-called atopic disorders such as hay fever (seasonal allergies) and asthma, which many people with atopic dermatitis also have. In addition, many children who outgrow the symptoms of atopic dermatitis go on to develop hay fever or asthma. Although one disorder does not necessarily cause another, they may be related, thereby giving researchers clues to understanding atopic dermatitis.
While emotional factors and stress may in some cases exacerbate or initiate the condition, they do not seem to be a primary or underlying cause for the disorder. In the past, there was some thought that perhaps atopic dermatitis was entirely caused by an emotional disorder.
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| Photo of atopic dermatitis on the ear |
Next: Is atopic dermatitis contagious? »
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