title: [Atopic dermatitis].
abstract: Atopic dermatitis is a type of eczema determined by polygenic inheritance which is often associated with further phenotypes of the atopic syndrome such as extrinsic asthma and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Discussion of pathogenesis includes complex immunological and biochemical disorders as well as various triggering environmental factors. Characteristic patterns of distribution and morphology of the lesions vary with the patient's age. In addition, there is a broad spectrum of clinical variants. Diagnosis is based on stage-dependent eczematous morphology, if necessary validated by histology, family and personal history and clinical features of atopy, as well as on the results of allergologic assessment primarily comprising intra- and epicutaneous testing. Topical corticosteroids still are the main therapeutic approach.
authors.affiliation: Dermatologische Universitätsklinik Bern.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Hunziker
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D016572:Cyclosporine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic / Q000379:methods; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007223:Infant; D010641:Phenotype; D014467:Ultraviolet Therapy
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D016572:Cyclosporine