Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is pervasive, chronic and relapsing disease. An understanding of the disease epidemiology and pathophysiology will aid in the rational approach to its treatment. Environmental controls for potential triggers and pharmacotherapy are first line treatments. Patient education is essential for successful disease management. Subspecialty referral is required for recalcitrant disease, requiring therapies with higher side effect profiles and closer monitoring. If concerns regarding accuracy of diagnosis or specific allergic triggers or complicating disease processes affect a particular patient, subspecialty referral is recommended.