Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease accompanied by intense pruritus. Depending on the severity of the disease, therapy includes non-pharmacological and general and topical pharmacological management.
The cornerstone of AD treatment is a combination of daily emollient therapy and appropriate skin care with anti-inflammatory treatment and avoidance of contact with provocative allergens and irritants. The treatment of AD requires the cooperation of the patient's parents with a dermatologist, allergologist and paediatrician.
In the care of atopic skin, it is advisable to gently and carefully cleanse the child's skin with low-allergenic products (containing or without antiseptics), in the form of syndets and water solutions. The optimal bathing water temperature is 27-30° C and the bathing time should not exceed 5 minutes. Within 5 minutes of leaving the bath, it is recommended to apply the aforementioned emollients.
In the case of severe pruritus associated with AD, a short-term antipruritic effect can be obtained through the topical application of preparations containing camphor, urea, menthol and black tea dressings. A short, lukewarm shower can also provide relief. The use of moist night dressings containing water or emollients, as well as glucocorticosteroids - under medical supervision - can also have a beneficial effect.
Due to the very frequent presence of Staphylococcus aureus on patients' skin, the use of antiseptics such as triclosan, chlorhexidine or crystal violet is acceptable. The use of topical antibiotics is justified in obvious bacterial infections.
Topical corticosteroids remain the first-line drugs in AD. If they are used, the principle is to reduce the dose until they are completely discontinued. For lesions localised to the face or skin folds, calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) are recommended for children over 2 years of age.
In more severe disease, generally administered drugs are used: antihistamines, immunosuppressants or biologics. Phototherapy and specific allergen immunotherapy are also used. Other preparations, such as opioid receptor antagonists or antidepressants from the SSRI (serotonin reuptake inhibitor) group, may be helpful, but are not currently registered for use in AD)
Treatment of AD requires the cooperation of the patient's parents with a dermatologist, allergologist and paediatrician.
photo: panthermedia
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic and recurring condition that significantly impairs quality of life. When symptoms occur, medical advice should be sought, as appropriate and early treatment, elimination of allergens and avoidance of irritants will allow rapid control of symptoms, preventing the progression of the disease, which, due to its chronic nature, has a negative impact on the child's physical and psychological development.
