Atopic Dermatitis

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Atopic Dermatitis

A mother spends the night in the hospital with her six month old for observation. After

an exhausting two days they return home. The mother begins to notice a tumid rash

appearing on the child’s legs. Not knowing what to do or what was to be the cause she

proceeds to take the child to doctor visits continuously to get relief from the irritation. The

rash disappears for a moment after trying numerous treatments but then reappears. Tired and

frustrated, the mother asks the child’s physician if she would refer the tot to the dermatologist.

Finally there may be a gleam of hope. The mother follows through with the appointment only to

be told that the child has a hereditary skin allergy known as Atopic Dermatitis. It is a very

common, chronic skin disease that is also known as a skin allergy or sensitivity. The disease is a

scaling, excessively dry, red rash that itches intensely. Red patches consume much of the skins

surface and in the creases it may crack and bleed. The word “dermatitis” refers to inflammation

of skin, and “atopic” means that it is hereditary, running in the family, and is run close together.

This disorder is not life threatening and is not contagious. Without the proper treatment this

incredibly, irritating itch will only progress and can cause much distress in one’s life.

The true cause of this disease is still yet to be determined. Although health providers

don’t know what is to blame; they have helped find ways to control the skin problem. The

environment, as well as many types of detergents, soaps, and harsh weather is what they believe

contribute to the outbreak. Food allergens are major provocation factors. Researchers have

come to the conclusion that gen...

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have a rash that pops out of nowhere and doesn’t go away with simple treatment, simply see the

doctor. The least you can be told is that it must have been something simple that you came into

contact with and never have to worry about again. Distinctively there is an outside difference for

those who have this allergy, although on the inside we have the same chemical make up for the

most part. You may catch a noticeable glare from time to time. Just keep in thought that people

are more curious and that they would benefit from knowledge more than a hateful insult. This

disease is mostly a discomfort and can be lessened with the proper treatment.

Works Cited

Department of Dermatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan

2008.

Schwanke, Jane. “Shifting Direction.” San Francisco: Dermatology Times. February 2010

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