It is estimated that up to 1 in 10 adults live with atopic dermatitis. Beyond being a problem in the skin, this condition affects self -esteem, rest and even the social and labor life of those who suffer from it. World atopic dermatitis Day is an opportunity to make visible the experience of thousands of people who face a daily minimized daily challenge.
How it manifests
Atopic dermatitis (DA) is characterized by dryness, irritation and, often, itching in the skin. This condition is part of a set of disorders that include eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis. This condition may present significant challenges in the daily life of those who suffer from it.
As a dermatologist I can describe the day as systemic, chronic and visible condition, which can potentially generate important effects on the quality of life of patients. It manifests through recurring outbreaks in the skin. These outbreaks are characterized by cracks, itching or intense and persistent pruritus, which can generate pain, redness, scabs, secretions and infections.
Trigger factors
Although it is frequent in childhood, it is known that between 3 % and 10 % affect the adult. The adult’s day refers to this condition when it manifests from 12 years. It may appear with injuries from an early age or arise again in adulthood. This data is very important for diagnosis.
In its etiology, genetic and environmental factors are involved. Among those linked to the environment are excessive sweating, the duration and temperature of the very hot bath, the use of strong soaps, irritating lotions, wool or nylon clothing, dry climate, some irritants, allergens, among others.
The majority of those who suffer from it have an atopic base with other manifestations, such as allergic rhinitis, which is characterized by constant nasal secretion, or repetition conjunctivitis. In these cases, there can be a worsening of the skin condition during periods of high concentration of allergens in the environment, such as spring and autumn. The adult clinical manifestations are usually focused on thickened skin plates, which are located in the neck, neck faces, limb flexures and doll back.
While awareness of environmental or food allergens has been linked to this pathology, it does not seem to be its main cause. However, it could contribute to a subgroup of patients with serious forms of it. For those who suffer from moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, there are options such as phototherapy or systemic treatment, which are known and used.
Available treatment options
Currently, the Topical corticosteroids (in cream, ointment or lotion) are the basis of treatment against eczema in times of outbreak. The best way to obtain maximum benefit and without noticing any adverse effect is to always follow the pattern that the doctor marks. We must not use more cream than necessary or for longer than recommended. When applying it, a small and well extended amount is better, since absorption is facilitated. A few minutes after placement, an emollient cream can be used to hydrate the skin and favor corticosteroid absorption.
Other available treatments are antihistamines. On the other hand, antibiotics (especially those specific to S. aureus, a very frequent bacterium in the skin) can be very useful in the control of the outbreaks, especially if they are clearly infected.
Also, in the current panorama, a new promising option opens. It is a medicine that is part of the family of calls “Biological drugs”an antibody that has the ability to modulate the immune response in people with atopic dermatitis. It is administered by subcutaneous injections every two weeks and is indicated for those patients for whom topical treatment is not sufficient and other systemic treatments are not advisable due to adverse effects.
Everyday care that makes difference
Some fundamental recommendations to consider are: Make short baths, use warm water and neutral or hypoallergenic soaps, dry the skin gently without rubbing, moistry after bathing with creams, use cotton garments, avoid wool or synthetic fibers, do not warm up too much, use short and clean nails, keep the temperature of the temperate household and clean and ventilated environments. However, we must remember that each individual is unique, and there is no approach that is effective for all. It is always recommended to consult with a dermatologist to determine the appropriate treatment for each case.
In summary, understanding the challenges and treatment options is key to improving the lives of those who live with atopic dermatitis. Continuous medical care and proper accompaniment allow each patient to lead a fuller life, despite the outbreaks and limitations imposed by the disease.
Each person needs a personalized approach, but there is a common denominator: the strong impact that gives it to emotional, social and work. Talking about atopic dermatitis is talking about quality of life.
On this world day, the message is overwhelming: atopic dermatitis should not be invisible or underestimated. It requires empathy, timely diagnosis and access to effective treatments that guarantee each person live with less pain and more dignity. “By” on this world day, the message is clear: atopic dermatitis should not continue to be invisible or underestimated. It is a condition that requires empathy, early diagnosis and access to effective treatments that allow each person to live with less pain and more dignity.
Leisa Molinari (Mn ° 116.628). Dermatologist specialist in skin cancer and Mohs micrographic surgery. Founder of the Skin Medical Center and member of numerous national and international scientific societies. @dra.leisamolinari
By Leisa Molinari
