Exams and Tests

Most cases of atopic dermatitis can be diagnosed from a medical history and a physical exam.

Allergy testing

Your doctor may recommend allergy testing to find out what might be causing your atopic dermatitis flares. Allergy testing is most helpful for people with atopic dermatitis who also have respiratory allergies or asthma.

Testing can also help find out if certain foods, such as eggs or nuts, are making the condition worse. Talk with your doctor about testing for allergies before making dietary changes.

If a specific allergen is thought to trigger your atopic dermatitis, you and your doctor will discuss how to eliminate it from your diet or environment while closely observing and recording your symptoms.

Treatment Overview

Treatment for atopic dermatitis depends on the type of rash you have. Most mild cases can be treated at home with moisturizers and preventive care. Most of the time, rash and itching can be controlled within 3 weeks of a flare.

For information on things you can do at home, see Home Treatment.

Medical treatment

For severe cases, medicines may be needed to treat the rash and reduce itching. These may include steroid medicines and antihistamines. To learn more, see Medications.

For cases that don't get better with medicines or moisturizers, treatment may include:

• A bandage or dressing that is wrapped around the affected skin. This covers any open sores and prevents contact with air.
• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, with or without other medicine, at a clinic or doctor's office. Options include phototherapy or psoralen plus ultraviolet light therapy (PUVA).
• High-strength topical corticosteroids or oral corticosteroids. These may be used when the rash covers large areas of the body. They may also be used when complications occur, such as skin infections.
• Cyclosporine or interferon. These are sometimes used in adults if other treatment doesn't work.

In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed. A short stay in the hospital can quickly control the condition.

What to think about

Counseling may be helpful for children and adults with atopic dermatitis. Talking with a counselor can help reduce stress and anxiety caused by atopic dermatitis and can help a person cope with the condition.