Atopic Dermatitis In Babies And Children
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics at least one in 10 children has atopic dermatitis (also called eczema), an ongoing skin problem that causes dry, red, itchy skin. Children with eczema have more sensitive skin than other people, and here's what parents need to know about the condition.
Problems with the skin barrier cause atopic dermatitis in children; often, kids do not have enough of a particular protein called "filaggrin" in the outer layer of the skin. Filaggrin helps skin form a strong barrier between the body and the environment. Skin with too little of this protein has a more challenging time holding in water and keeping out bacteria and environmental irritants. Both a person's genes and environment play a role in this condition.
Atopic dermatitis rashes can be different for each child and can be all over the body or in just a few spots. The rash often worsens at times and then gets better. Where the rashes develop may change over time:
In babies, eczema usually starts on the scalp and face. Red, dry rashes may show up on the cheeks, forehead, and around the mouth. Eczema usually does not develop in the diaper area.
In young school-aged children, the eczema rash is often in the elbow creases, on the backs of the knees, on the neck, and around the eyes.
Atopic dermatitis can be frustrating for children and their parents, especially when the itching makes it challenging to sleep. Your pediatrician can help you manage your child's eczema symptoms with a treatment plan and a healthy skin maintenance routine.
If your child has been diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, we are currently enrolling in a treatment study for children ages 2-17 years old. You can learn more about this study by calling 843-473-6523. You can also email us at info.research@cpakids.com to see if your child is eligible for this study.
