Eczema: Atopic Dermatitis

The majority of atopic dermatitis starts during the first five years of life. It is a chronic scaly red rash that usually begins on the cheeks. It can be an extremely itchy rash that leads to constant scratching and,, eventually, cause bleeding from the affected areas. During the first year, it tends to spread to the creases – the elbows, knees, wrists, ears, neck and eyelids. After puberty, it commonly occurs on the hands, fingers, and feet.

Do food allergies cause atopic dermatitis? People with eczema have a higher incidence of food allergies, but the concept that they cause eczema is controversial. In a few patients, certain foods seem to aggravate eczema, and avoiding the food seems to improve the condition. However, up to 80 percent of individuals with eczema end up with other allergic diseases – either allergic rhinitis or asthma. At present time, there is no evidence that atopic dermatitis is caused by an allergy.

The physician will look at the nature of the rash, combined with medical history. Skin testing may be conducted to look for allergies that could be aggravating a skin condition. Eczema can also be aggravated by heat and contact with rough surfaces.

Even hives can be caused by factors with no allergic origin. For example, hives can be brought on by extremely cold temperatures or cold objects.

Other Skin Problems:

Contact dermatitis - is a rash, which can mimic eczema, caused when the skin comes into contact with certain irritants and allergens

Hives – are a type of rash known as welts, which can last a few days or months and can appear anywhere on the body and vary in color and shape

Angioedema – is a swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, and can sometimes occur with hives

All of the causes of contact dermatitis are not amenable to testing. Urinary (hives), like eczema, can be aggravated by no allergic factors, such as heat and viral infections.