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Atopic Dermatitis
If you are seeking professional advice & treatment (if appropriate) for Atopic Dermatitis or any other scalp condition please contact the helpline (top left of page). You can speak to a trichologist in person who will advise you accordingly.
Atopic Dermatitis is a common condition that tends to affect children more that adults.
Males and females are affected equally. The onset of Atopic Dermatitis may be during the first few months of life
presenting as weeping, crusting, and pruritic erythema on the face, genital region & scalp. Children often show permanent remission (skin tends to stay dry and irritates easily).
Research suggests 65% of cases begin during year one and 90% by the year five.
An estimated 10% of all children experience symptoms of Atopic dermatitis.
60% of these will show exacerbation during adulthood.
Children are more susceptible if hayfever or asthma is present in other family members. A higher risk exists if both parents suffer an Atopic condition. Where one identical twin (identical genetic makeup) suffers an Atopic condition the other has an 80-90% chance of contraction.
During adolescence and adulthood, the condition tends to become localised and lichenified affecting the eyelids, neck/scalp and wrists/hands. Blisters and papules may develop which may rupture becoming infected. Cracks around the ears are common. The skin may become hyper-pigmented. Scales may be present. Reoccurrence is common. Atopic Dermatitis tends to show improvement with age.
Atopic Dermatitis is not contagious. Shows similarities to Seborrhoeic Dermatitis in infants(cradle cap) and contact dermatitis in adolescent/adult cases. Incorrect diagnosis is common.
Removing the cause may not promote remission except in infants. Research shows that Atopic Dermatitis patients tend to have high serum levels of IgE antibodies, the significance is unknown. Psychological stress associated with Atopic Dermatitis can be considerable especially in baby’s who can’t self manipulate.
The above information is not for self diagnosis. Please be mindful that there are many conditions that show similar symptoms. Seeking professional advice is advisable.
If you need assistance with any scalp condition please contact our helpline (top left of page). Alternatively you can e-mail you request to:
E Stevens
The Holborn Hair & Scalp Clinic
Specialists in hair loss and scalp conditions
Tel: 0207 404 0072
