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- A condition characterized by dry itchy skin
- Likely a genetic relationship
- Multiple environmental factors (i.e., food, clothing, soap, bacterial, dust-mites, climate)
- Emotional stress also worsens
- More common in infants; 50% are clear by age 10
- 50% retain the condition to adulthood
- Associated with Asthma in 50%
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- Dry, scaly rash. Common areas in infants are scalp, cheeks, and elbows.
- In children and adults, common areas are eyelids, neck, elbow creases, and back of knees
- Rarely, total body involvement may occur
- Prolonged episodes may lead to thickening, facial wrinkles, increased pigmentation.
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- Changing of formula (lactose to soy) may benefit some children
- Avoidance of environmental irritants and triggers
- Mild soaps, moisturizers, topical and oral antihistamines
- Restrict bathing to twice weekly; oatmeal baths may help, followed by moisturizers
- Scalp may benefit from antifungal shampoos and creams
- Severe cases may benefit from patch testing by a dermatologist
- Severe cases may require oral steroids and ultra-violet light therapy
- High-strength steroids may thin skin, cause acne, affect growth, and will require monitoring by a physician.
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- Scratching can cause scarring, infection, increased pigmentation, and thickening of the skin.
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- Avoidance of irritants and triggers
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