Atopic Dermatitis Specialist

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It most often occurs during childhood, but the skin condition may appear at any age.

Genetics and environmental factors may play a role in the development of atopic dermatitis. People with the skin condition have a genetic variant that affects their skin’s ability to protect against irritants and allergens, resulting in inflammation. 

Children with atopic dermatitis may be more likely to develop other health problems such as asthma or allergic rhinitis (hay fever). 

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?

Signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis vary in type and severity. Common symptoms of the skin condition include:

• Patches of red or brown-colored skin
• Itchy skin that seems worse at night
• Dry skin
• Thick, scaly, cracked skin
• Small bumps that leak fluid
• Sensitive, swollen skin

The itching and cracking that occurs with atopic dermatitis may increase your risk of developing an infection. 

The skin condition usually affects the knees or elbows but may also appear on the back of the hands or the scalp.

Your atopic dermatitis may come and go, and you may even go several years without a flare-up. 

What happens during an atopic dermatitis evaluation?

When you visit Allergy Asthma & Immunology Center, Dr. Lev Barsky, with concerns about atopic dermatitis, you can expect a comprehensive examination.

Dr. Barsky, a highly experienced allergist, first reviews your symptoms and medical history and examines your skin. He can diagnose atopic dermatitis after conducting a health history and physical, but he may take a skin sample and send it to the lab to confirm a diagnosis.

He may also test for allergies and assess lung health to look for signs and symptoms of asthma.

How is atopic dermatitis treated?

No single treatment works for all types of atopic dermatitis. Dr. Barsky works closely with you to find the right mix of treatments to control flare-ups and ease symptoms when they occur.

Your plan may include:

• Regular skin moisturizing and care
• Corticosteroid cream to control itching
• Calcineurin inhibitors — control the skin reaction 
• Antibiotic creams for infections
• Oral corticosteroids for severe inflammation
• Injectable biologics
• Wet dressings — wrapping the skin with corticosteroids and wet bandages
• Light therapy — exposing the skin to controlled amounts of natural sunlight

Dr. Barsky spends time talking to you about your skin condition and treatment options and how to recognize the early signs of a flare-up to get you relief right away. 

To get help for your atopic dermatitis, call Allergy Asthma & Immunology Center, Dr. Lev Barsky, or schedule an appointment online today.