Atopic dermatitis (AD), or atopic eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that commonly presents as pruritic, ill-defined, dry patches with excoriations. Although AD can affect any part of the body, it usually has an age-related distribution. The condition can affect up to 20% of children and 10% of adults and is more common in urban than in rural areas, and its prevalence increases in individuals immigrating to developed countries from underdeveloped regions.
AD, which is associated with complex genetic and environmental risk factors, begins in early childhood and may continue into adolescence and adulthood. Although many patients experience symptom-free periods, morbidity from the sequelae of incessant itching includes loss of school and work days, 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 short quiz.
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Cite this: Richard P. Vinson. Fast Five Quiz: Atopic Dermatitis - Medscape - Feb 11, 2020.
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