Atopic Dermatitis: Frequently Asked Questions
What is atopic dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin disease caused by common allergens such as pollens, molds and dust mites. It causes itching and can be so severe that the dog’s scratching can lead to complications such as skin lesions, hair loss, and secondary infections. Atopic dermatitis usually occurs seasonally at first, but eventually can become a year-round problem. The disease is chronic and lasts a lifetime. It’s almost impossible to completely avoid allergens, so most atopic dogs need long-term treatment.
Source: www.us.atopica.com
"Atopy" is the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases like hayfever and asthma. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema; it results from the immune system overreacting to allergens, causing inflammation. Emotional distress can also trigger flare-ups in some cases. Atopic dermatitis usually runs in families, and according to EczemaNet , 10 to 20 percent of the world population suffers from atopic dermatitis at some point during childhood, but it normally clears up with age.
Source: www.achooallergy.com
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic or recurrent atopic inflammatory skin disease that: * Generally begins in the first few years of life. * May be the initial clinical manifestaion of an allergic predisposition, ususally receding allergic rhinitis and asthma. In some patients, particularly young children, allergy to food or aeroallergens cintributes to the disease. Atopic dermatitis may present at any age, but usually has an onset in chilhood *Approximately 50% of patients develop symptoms in the first year of life. *
Source: www.allergy-md.info
What is atopic dermatitis/eczema?
The skin is an organ that can become diseased. One fairly common skin condition, especially in some infants and children, is atopic dermatitis, or eczema. Other forms of skin diseases include seborrheic eczema (cause unknown) and contact dermatitis (such as poison ivy or contact with detergents and chemicals). Atopic dermatitis is the most difficult to treat-but it can be controlled.
Source: www.allergybuyersclub.com
Atopic Dermatitis, also known as Eczema, is an allergic skin condition that is hereditary and often associated with food allergies, asthma, and/or allergic rhinitis.
Source: sneezenotwheezenot.com
Who develops atopic dermatitis?
About 1 percent of all children's visits to doctors is for atopic dermatitis. It affects from 1 percent to 10 percent of infants. About 27 percent of infants whose mothers have allergies develop atopic dermatitis. One-half of infants who have eczema before they are one year old have no more symptoms by age two. Atopic dermatitis usually goes away during childhood, or by the age of 25. But for some people, it is lifelong. Adults can also develop atopic dermatitis.
Source: www.allergybuyersclub.com
Is atopic dermatitis an allergy?
Atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema, can be a chronic, itchy condition in which the skin is overly sensitive to many things. People with atopic dermatitis also often have a higher likelihood of developing certain allergic conditions, such as a food allergy, hay fever, and asthma. However, atopic dermatitis is not an allergy because it is not a specific response to a specific allergen , and very rarely will finding the allergy and eliminating it completely clear the eczema.
Source: www.skincarephysicians.com
Is there a cure for atopic dermatitis?
Like human allergies, atopic dermatitis is a lifelong condition that can be controlled but not "cured. " However, the condition can be successfully managed so the dog can live in comfort. The first signs usually appear between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, after a dog has developed sensitivities to common allergens like house dust, mites, pollens and molds.
Source: www.buyatopica.com
Is Atopic Eczema (or Atopic Dermatitis) an allergy?
topic Eczema, the most common type of Eczema, is a chronic, itchy skin condition which causes the skin to be extremely sensitive to many things. However, Atopic Eczema is not technically an allergy because it is not a specific response to a specific allergen and it is very rarely completely cleared by removing the cause of sensitivity. People with Atopic Eczema often have a higher likelihood of developing certain allergic conditions, such as a food allergy, hay fever, and asthma.
Source: www.armstrongskinaid.com
What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?
Itchiness is the main symptom. Initial lesions or sores can appear as reddish patches or small, cone-shaped bumps where the dog has scratched. Atopic dermatitis has a characteristic distribution pattern. The itchiness and sores usually occur on what are referred to as the Five F’s of AD: the face—especially the ears, the feet, folds of skin, friction points, and flexure spots like the patch of skin over the elbow. Atopic dogs scratch, bite, lick and rub until they lose hair and irritate the skin. ...
Source: www.atopica.ca
Itchiness is the main symptom. Initial lesions or sores can appear as reddish patches or small, cone-shaped bumps where the dog has scratched. Atopic dermatitis has a characteristic distribution pattern. The itchiness and sores usually occur on what are referred to as the five F’s: the
face —especially the ears, the
feet ,
folds of skin,
friction points , and
flexure spots like the patch of skin over the elbow. Atopic dogs scratch, bite, lick and rub until they lose hair and irritate the skin. ...
Source: www.us.atopica.com
Itchiness is the main symptom. Initial lesions or sores can appear as reddish patches or small, cone-shaped bumps where the dog has scratched. Atopic dermatitis has a characteristic distribution pattern. The itchiness and sores usually occur on what are referred to as the Five F’s of AD: the face—especially the ears, the feet, folds of skin, friction points, and flexure spots like the patch of skin over the elbow. Atopic dogs scratch, bite, lick and rub until they lose hair and irritate the skin. ...
Source: www.buyatopica.com
Is atopic dermatitis a chronic condition?
Atopic dermatitis is usually a lifelong disease that requires long-term treatment. The first signs usually appear between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, after a dog has developed sensitivities to common allergens like house dust, mites, pollens and molds. Atopic dermatitis can’t be cured, but the itching and secondary infections can be managed.
Source: www.us.atopica.com
How common is atopic dermatitis in dogs?
Based on market research, atopic dermatitis is the most common cause of allergic dermatitis in dogs. Veterinarians estimate that 14.4 percent of dogs are affected and about two-thirds of these affected dogs are chronic cases. 4 4 Veterinarian market research, Burke Marketing Research, 2001. Data on file. Novartis Animal Health US, Inc.
Source: www.us.atopica.com
What are the trigger factors for development of atopic dermatitis?
Most atopics (individuals suffering from atopic dermatitis / asthma / hay fever) worsen during winter season, when as such the skin is prone to dryness. *
Sweating can aggravate the eczema. *
Atopic children are intolerant to woolens, synthetic and dyed fabrics. *
Simultaneous upper respiratory tract infections (cough and cold),
teething or vaccinations can trigger a rash. *
A stray mosquito bite on the exposed areas of the body can potentially trigger a rash all over the body. ...
Source: www.indiachildren.com
Does pregnancy cause atopic dermatitis to flare?
Some patients have reported that their atopic dermatitis became worse while they were pregnant; others said that their atopic dermatitis cleared during pregnancy. Current studies do not exist to confirm that pregnancy contributes to either. Female patients also have reported clearing or worsening of atopic dermatitis in association with their menstrual cycle, but no studies clearly document the menstrual cycle as a factor in atopic dermatitis. ...
Source: www.skincarephysicians.com
What is Atopic Dermatitis (AD)?
AD is a chronic noncontagious skin disease that is characterized by abnormally dry skin and increased itching. Intense itching, is the key symptom, and leads to scratching. Inflammation results in redness, swelling, cracking, and oozing of clear fluid. In the instance of secondary bacterial infection there will be crusting and yellow scale. 1
Source: www.mimyx.com
Is atopic dermatitis a rare condition?
Publications show that this condition affects 20% of children between the ages of 3 and 11 years. It usually starts at around the age of 3 months and, in most cases, if treated, disappears after the age of 5 years. Atopic dermatitis is really itchy! Atopic dermatitis results from a deficiency in skin lipids which alters the skin barrier function of the skin. The roughness due to dry skin or atopic dermatitis is accompanied by severe itching, and a child can scratch himself until he bleeds. ...
Source: www.makingasplash.com.au
Is atopic dermatitis a localized condition?
Eczema can be seen on the cheeks, shins, hands and back of the arms of babies, and on the hands, inner elbow, knees and neck of children. But in fact, the entire skin is dry, permeable, sensitive and requires treatment and specific care.
Source: www.makingasplash.com.au
What other products are available to treat atopic dermatitis?
The options for controlling atopic dermatitis include avoiding allergens, using barrier-type products like shampoos to reduce exposure of the skin to allergens, and administering various medications like antihistamines and antimicrobials to help control the itching and treat secondary infections.
Source: www.us.atopica.com
The options for controlling atopic dermatitis include avoiding allergens, using topical products like shampoos, sprays and creams to reduce allergen exposure or reduce localized inflammation, and administering various medications like steroids, antihistamines, essential fatty acids and antibiotics to help control the itching and treat secondary infections.
Source: www.buyatopica.com
How does a child get Atopic Eczema / Dermatitis?
Atopic eczema is an inherited disorder. If one of the parents or any other close relations of the child has a history of atopy (i.e. either atopic eczema and/or asthma and/or hay fever), the chances that the child will have atopic dermatitis are high.
Source: www.indiachildren.com
Is atopic dermatitis only treated with medication?
The doctor will only prescribe medication (such as mild topical steroid creams) if your child's skin requires it (itching, superinfection, blisters, etc.), usually during eczema attacks and taking into account the overall state of your child's skin condition. The rest of the time, advice on hygiene and skincare should be followed daily: cleanse your child's skin gently with a soap-free washing base as a cleansing cream , a bar or a or a cleansing bath oil which does not aggress the skin, then moisturize* with an emollient cream every day until his atopic dermatitis improves. ...
Source: www.makingasplash.com.au
Does Kilvi help to ease atopic dermatitis?
Yes, Kilvi is effective against the allergen that causes atopic dermatitis.
Source: panasian.jp
How close are scientists to finding a cure for atopic dermatitis?
While rapid advancements in medical research have been made in recent years, scientists do not expect to find a cure for atopic dermatitis any time soon. It is anticipated that current research will eventually lead to revolutionary new ways to diagnose, treat, and perhaps even prevent atopic dermatitis. ...
Are some dogs more prone to atopic dermatitis than others?
Yes, many dogs are genetically predisposed to develop the condition. Studies have shown that if both parents are affected, about 60 percent of their offspring will develop the allergy. 5 The following breeds have been reported to have a higher likelihood of developing atopic dermatitis 6 : Many Terrier breeds Boxer Cocker Spaniel Dalmation English Bulldog English Setter Irish Setter Labrador Retriever Lhasa Apso Miniature Schnauzer Pug Shar Pei 5 Shaw S. Atopic dermatitis in the dog. Vet On-Line Professionals. ...
Source: www.us.atopica.com
How does one know that the child is suffering from Atopic Dermatitis?
In most of the cases, the rash of atopic eczema is evident before the age of 6 months. In infants below 6 months of age, the face (especially the cheek area) is typically involved. There are reddish, dry, sometimes slightly scaly patches. At times, oozing can also occur. Itching is a predominant symptom, making the child rub or scratch the area. As the child grows older, the rash can appear on the limbs. Very often, the front of the elbows and back of knees are affected. ...
Source: www.indiachildren.com
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF PEOPLE WITH ATOPIC DERMATITIS/ECZEMA ACQUIRING VACCINIA FROM A VACCINATED PERSON?
People with atopic dermatitis/eczema should avoid contact with recent vaccinees. Vaccinia is generally transmitted from person to person through direct contact, so precautions should be taken to reduce the likelihood of such contact. If you accidentally come in contact with someone who has been vaccinated or with something that may be contaminated with live virus, wash immediately and thoroughly with soap and warm water. The period during which a recently vaccinated person is a threat is three weeks to one month.
Source: www.nationaleczema.org
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS FOR A PERSON WITH ATOPIC DERMATITIS/ECZEMA WHO COMES INTO CONTACT WITH VACCINIA?
With early recognition and appropriate use of Vaccinia Immune Globulin (VIG), mortality can be reduced to zero, and morbidity alleviated. However, even if there is a delay in recognition, prompt institution of VIG should be undertaken. Untreated patients become quite ill and evidence systemic symptoms. If unrecognized and untreated, the patient will manifest severe systemic symptoms resembling septic shock, and death ensues.
Source: www.nationaleczema.org
WHAT IF I HAVE ATOPIC DERMATITIS/ECZEMA AND BECOME EXPOSED TO SMALLPOX?
If exposure to smallpox occurs, then vaccination is recommended, even for those people with atopic dermatitis/eczema. Vaccination within three days of exposure will completely prevent or significantly modify smallpox in the vast majority of persons. Vaccination four to seven days after exposure likely offers some protection from smallpox or may modify the severity of that disease.
Source: www.nationaleczema.org

