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02/11/2025, 00:10 Otic & Ophthalmic Disorders | Dermatological Disorders

Dermatological Disorders

Atopic & Contact Dermatitis and Dry Skin

Eczema Vs Dermatitis

The terms "eczema" and "dermatitis" describe Inflammatory skin conditions of which the principal symptoms
are: dryness, erythema and itching.
Eczema (Atopic dermatitis) is chronic, often genetic skin condition characterized by a dysfunctional skin barrier,
while contact dermatitis is an external reaction to irritants or allergens.

Eczema: Applies to conditions with an endogenous cause in atopic individuals
Dermatitis: Applies to reaction to external agents

Atopy is a genetically predisposed tendency to exaggerated skin and mucosal reactivity in response to
environmental stimuli.

Eczema (Atopic dermatitis)

Pathophysiology:

AD is primarily related to two major alterations in the epidermal barrier and the immune system.
The deficient skin barrier characteristic of AD, including:
✓ An increased penetration of allergens.
✓ A decreased ability to retain moisture.

Compared with that of nonaffected persons, the skin of patients with AD (atopic dermatitis) may be more
reactive to irritants.
Criteria for diagnosis of atopic dermatitis include:
✓ Early age at onset

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