Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema) in Children


Introduction to Atopic Dermatitis in Children

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as atopic eczema, is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin condition characterized by pruritus, erythema, and skin barrier dysfunction. It is one of the most common skin disorders in children, often beginning in infancy and potentially persisting into adulthood. AD is part of the atopic triad, which also includes asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Key features of atopic dermatitis include:

  • Pruritus (itching) - the hallmark symptom
  • Characteristic age-dependent distribution of skin lesions
  • Chronic or chronically relapsing course
  • Personal or family history of atopy
  • Associated cutaneous and extracutaneous complications

Understanding the multifaceted nature of AD is crucial for effective management and improving the quality of life for affected children and their families.



AD types The nomenclature of dermatitis and its immunologically mediated forms eczema (immunologically mediated dermatitis), IgE-mediated eczema (atopic eczema), and non-IgE-mediated eczema (nonatopic eczema). (source)


Objective QnA: Atopic Dermatitis (Atopic Eczema) in Children
  1. What is atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and recurrent eczematous lesions.
  2. At what age does atopic dermatitis typically first appear in children?
    Answer: Atopic dermatitis usually appears within the first 6 months to 5 years of life, with most cases starting before age 2.
  3. What are the three main factors contributing to atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: The three main factors are genetic predisposition, skin barrier dysfunction, and immune system dysregulation.
  4. Which of the following is NOT a common location for atopic dermatitis in infants?
    Answer: Palms and soles of feet (Atopic dermatitis in infants typically affects the face, scalp, and extensor surfaces of extremities)
  5. What is the "atopic march"?
    Answer: The "atopic march" refers to the typical progression of atopic diseases, starting with atopic dermatitis, followed by food allergies, allergic rhinitis, and asthma.
  6. Which skin barrier protein is often deficient in patients with atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Filaggrin
  7. What is the primary symptom that defines atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Intense itching (pruritus)
  8. How does scratching contribute to the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Scratching damages the skin barrier, leading to increased inflammation and susceptibility to infections, creating an "itch-scratch cycle".
  9. What is the role of Staphylococcus aureus in atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: S. aureus often colonizes the skin of atopic dermatitis patients, exacerbating inflammation and increasing the risk of skin infections.
  10. Which environmental factor is known to exacerbate atopic dermatitis symptoms?
    Answer: Low humidity
  11. What is the first-line treatment for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Topical corticosteroids
  12. How should topical corticosteroids be applied in relation to moisturizers?
    Answer: Topical corticosteroids should be applied before moisturizers.
  13. What class of medications are tacrolimus and pimecrolimus?
    Answer: Topical calcineurin inhibitors
  14. Which systemic medication might be considered for severe, refractory atopic dermatitis in children?
    Answer: Dupilumab (an IL-4 and IL-13 inhibitor)
  15. What is the primary goal of using emollients in atopic dermatitis management?
    Answer: To improve and maintain skin barrier function
  16. How often should children with atopic dermatitis bathe?
    Answer: Daily to every other day, using lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free cleansers
  17. What is the "soak and smear" technique?
    Answer: A method where the skin is soaked in water, patted dry, and then immediately covered with moisturizer to lock in hydration
  18. Which clothing material is least likely to irritate atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Cotton
  19. What is the recommended first-line approach for managing nighttime itching in children with atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Proper skin care, including regular use of emollients and appropriate topical anti-inflammatory treatments
  20. Which of the following is NOT a common trigger for atopic dermatitis flares?
    Answer: Increased humidity (Common triggers include low humidity, stress, certain foods, allergens, and irritants)
  21. What is the term for the dry, rough, bumpy skin often seen in patients with atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Keratosis pilaris
  22. How does the prevalence of atopic dermatitis change as children age?
    Answer: The prevalence tends to decrease with age, with many children outgrowing the condition by adolescence
  23. What is the "weekend effect" in atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: The tendency for symptoms to worsen on weekends, often due to changes in routine and decreased adherence to treatment regimens
  24. Which comorbidity is more common in children with atopic dermatitis compared to the general population?
    Answer: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  25. What is the primary mechanism of action for crisaborole in treating atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Inhibition of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4)
  26. How does wet wrap therapy work in managing severe atopic dermatitis flares?
    Answer: It involves applying topical medications and moisturizers, then covering the affected areas with damp and dry layers of cloth to increase penetration and reduce itching
  27. What is the role of probiotics in atopic dermatitis management?
    Answer: While research is ongoing, some studies suggest probiotics may help prevent atopic dermatitis in high-risk infants and potentially reduce severity in some patients
  28. Which vitamin deficiency has been associated with increased severity of atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Vitamin D deficiency
  29. What is the typical distribution of atopic dermatitis lesions in older children and adolescents?
    Answer: Flexural areas such as the neck, elbow creases, and behind the knees
  30. How does the pH of the skin in atopic dermatitis patients differ from healthy individuals?
    Answer: The skin pH is typically higher (more alkaline) in atopic dermatitis patients
  31. What is the name of the scoring system commonly used to assess the severity of atopic dermatitis in clinical trials?
    Answer: SCORAD (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis)
  32. Which cytokines play a key role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: IL-4, IL-13, and IL-31
  33. What is the recommended duration of topical corticosteroid use for an acute flare of atopic dermatitis?
    Answer: Typically 3-7 days, or until the flare is controlled
  34. How does atopic dermatitis affect a child's quality of life?
    Answer: It can significantly impact sleep, social interactions, self-esteem, and academic performance due to itching, discomfort, and visible skin changes


Disclaimer

The notes provided on Pediatime are generated from online resources and AI sources and have been carefully checked for accuracy. However, these notes are not intended to replace standard textbooks. They are designed to serve as a quick review and revision tool for medical students and professionals, and to aid in theory exam preparation. For comprehensive learning, please refer to recommended textbooks and guidelines.





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