1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Slideshow Pictures
2. Take the Eczema Quiz
3. Adult Skin Problems Slideshow

Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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It is generally agreed that the tendency to atopy is genetically inherited. For the purposes of this discussion the term eczema and atopic dermatitis will be synonymous. Individuals with atopic dermatitis have a variety of abnormal immunologic findings like elevated IgE antibody (immunoglobulin E) levels and defective cell-mediated immunity which causes difficulty in fighting off certain viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.

Like most other noninfectious diseases, atopic skin disease can be triggered by environmental factors.

One of the hallmarks of atopic dermatitis is excessive skin dryness, which seems to be due a lack of certain skin proteins. Any factor that promotes dryness is likely to exacerbate atopic dermatitis.

Common triggers of atopic dermatitis include the following:

• Harsh soaps and detergents
• Solvents
• Low humidity
• Lotions
• Rough wool clothing
• Sweating
• Occlusive rubber or plastic gloves
• Rubbing
• Staphylococcal bacteria
• Repeated wetting and drying of the skin (food handling)

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