Treatment of atopic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a disease of unknown origin, although heredity plays an important role in its pathogenesis. The incidence appears to be increasing and is up to 14% in some Western countries. 1 Despite numerous treatments, there is presently no cure for the disease. At this time, until the basic defect is recognized and rectified, the aim of treatment is to control the symptoms and signs of pruritus, xerosis, and inflammation until the disease regresses, which occurs in most patients. In addition to the use of steroids and moisturization, the role of food, both in preventing the development of AD from birth and its withdrawal in established AD, and the role of aeroallergens will be examined. As infections are common in AD, their management will be discussed. Reports of psychological problems 2 within the family setting will be mentioned. Lastly, recommendations for patients and physicians on treating AD will be given.