Presentation of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis presents as dry, erythematous patches. It can affect any area of skin, but typically occurs on the face, cubital and popliteal fossae (behind the elbows and knees), wrists and ankles. The hallmark of atopic dermatitis is itch. Atopic dermatitis is the result of a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. It often co-exists with pityriasis alba.

Atopic dermatitis most commonly develops in the first year of life, but can present for the first time in adults. Most children experience remission or substantial improvement of their atopic dermatitis before starting primary school. A minority still have atopic dermatitis in their teenage years and into adulthood. Adults with a childhood history of atopic dermatitis can have a recurrence of atopic dermatitis, often related to their occupation (eg nursing, hairdressing, food preparation)—most commonly, this manifests as hand dermatitis.

See here for photos of atopic dermatitis on a child’s face, legs and back.

Figure 1. Atopic dermatitis

Note: Reproduced with permission from the A-Z of Skin [digital]. Australasian College of Dermatologists. Sydney. https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/

Note: Reproduced with permission from the A-Z of Skin [digital]. Australasian College of Dermatologists. Sydney. https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/

Note: Reproduced with permission from the A-Z of Skin [digital]. Australasian College of Dermatologists. Sydney. https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/