Diagnosis and Treatment
The goal of therapy is to reduce inflammation and to break the itch- scratch- itch cycle. The mainstay of treatment for atopic dermatitis is topical steroids and systemic (usually oral) antihistamines. Recently, tacrolimus ointment has been FDA- approved for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis. For severe acute exacerbations, occasionally a short course of systemic steroids is needed to control the disease. The last resort is an immune modulating drug such as azathioprine or cyclosporine. All of these therapies have potentially serious side effects and should be properly prescribed and dosed by a physician. An important part of keeping atopic dermatitis under control is avoiding factors that may enhance itching and contribute to flare- ups. This includes proper bathing (using mild cleansers and lukewarm--not hot--water) and moisturizing, as well as avoiding wool clothes, emotional stress, and uncomfortable climates. Skin testing or radioallergosorbent tests (RAST) can be used to identify if children are allergic to certain foods that are triggering their atopic dermatitis.

Last updated: 01-Jan-00