Updates on Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) or atopic eczema is a complex and multifactorial chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterized by intense itching and recurrent eczematous lesions. It is very frequent, affecting up to 20% of children in developed countries, and its prevalence has increased worldwide. Patients with AD have an increased risk of developing food allergy, allergic rhinitis, and asthma later in life; but may also present other comorbidities. The main symptom of AD is pruritus, which along with sleep disturbance, decreases the quality of life not only in patients but also in their families. Therapeutic options for AD have historically been limited, but recent advances have increased our understanding of its underlying mechanisms, contributing to the development of new therapies. In this chapter, we review the most recent knowledge about etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, comorbidities, and treatment options of AD.