Atopic dermatitis (AD), or atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that commonly presents as pruritic, ill-defined, dry patches with excoriations. AD can affect any part of the body. Up to 14% of adults may be affected by AD, with substantial variation across countries. It is more common in urban than in rural areas, and its prevalence increases in individuals immigrating to developed countries from underdeveloped regions.
AD is associated with complex genetic and environmental risk factors. Although many patients experience symptom-free periods, morbidity from the sequelae of incessant itching includes loss of productivity, loss of sleep, and an associated financial burden. The rising prevalence and long-term morbidity of AD emphasize the need for the clinician to understand the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this complicated disease process.
How much do you know about AD? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz.
Medscape © 2021 WebMD, LLC
Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Richard P. Vinson. Fast Five Quiz: Atopic Dermatitis - Medscape - Jan 22, 2021.
Comments