Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic skin disorder that can significantly impact the quality of life of
affected individuals as well as their families. Although the pathogenesis of the disorder is not completely
understood, it appears to result from the complex interplay between defects in skin barrier function, environmental
and infectious agents, and immune abnormalities. There are no specific diagnostic tests for AD; therefore, the
diagnosis is based on specific clinical criteria that take into account the patient’s history and clinical manifestations.
Successful management of the disorder requires a multifaceted approach that involves education, optimal skin care
practices, anti-inflammatory treatment with topical corticosteroids and/or topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs), the
use of first-generation antihistamines to help manage sleep disturbances, and the treatment of skin infections.
Systemic corticosteroids may also be used, but are generally reserved for the acute treatment of severe flare-ups.
Topical corticosteroids are the first-line pharmacologic treatments for AD, and evidence suggests that these agents
may also be beneficial for the prophylaxis of disease flare-ups. Although the prognosis for patients with AD is
generally favourable, those patients with severe, widespread disease and concomitant atopic conditions, such as
asthma and allergic rhinitis, are likely to experience poorer outcomes.