Atopic Dermatitis

(Eczema)

Is eczema more frequent in children or adult?

Most frequently occurs in children but also occur in adults

Which serum immunoglobulin is often elevated in eczema?

Immunoglobulin E (IgE)

Which cell count is often elevated in eczema?

Eosinophil

Which 3 conditions comprise atopy?

1) Eczema

2) Asthma

3) Allergic rhinitis

What is the strongest risk factor for development of eczema?

Family history of atopy

What is the approximate concordance rate for monozygotic twins?

80% for monozygotic twins

20% for dizygotic twins

What are the 2 key clinical features of eczema?

1) Dry skin

2) Pruritis (severe)

In adults which regions of the body are most commonly affected?

Skin flexures

What is the key component of overall management?

Skin hydration with emollients and moisturisers

Eczema herpeticum is usually caused by which virus?

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1)

Approximately what percentage of patients with eczema develop eczema herpeticum as a complication?

Less than 3%

What is the mainstay of treatment for eczema herpeticum?

Intravenous acyclovir – at the earliest opportunity