title: Atopic dermatitis: a review of diagnosis and treatment.
abstract: Atopic dermatitis is a common, potentially debilitating condition that can compromise quality of life. Its most frequent symptom is pruritus. Attempts to relieve the itch by scratching simply worsen the rash, creating a vicious circle. Treatment should be directed at limiting itching, repairing the skin and decreasing inflammation when necessary. Lubricants, antihistamines and topical corticosteroids are the mainstays of therapy. When required, oral corticosteroids can be used. If pruritus does not respond to treatment, other diagnoses, such as bacterial overgrowth or viral infections, should be considered. Treatment options are available for refractory atopic dermatitis, but these measures should be reserved for use in unique situations and typically require consultation with a dermatologist or an allergist.
authors.affiliation: Dermatology Division at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey 17003, USA.
authors.forename: C E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Correale
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Walker
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Murphy
authors.forename: T J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: Craig
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003663:Decision Trees; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010789:Phototherapy; D011537:Pruritus / Q000209:etiology; D013638:Tars / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013664:Teaching Materials
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D006634:Histamine H1 Antagonists; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists; D013638:Tars