Atopic Dermatitis

Dry, itchy, red patches of skin are telltale signs of atopic dermatitis, a common skin condition that can be difficult to treat without the right care. At Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland, the team of skilled dermatologists can create a personalized treatment plan for atopic dermatitis that reduces your flare-ups and keeps your skin clear. Call today or use the online booking tool to schedule an atopic dermatitis consultation.

What is atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis, commonly called eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, red, itchy patches of skin. These patches can develop anywhere but often affect the inner elbows, knees, face, neck, and hands.

This condition can be uncomfortable, leading to scratching that worsens symptoms and damages your skin barrier.

The team of board-certified dermatologists at Shady Grove Dermatology has the expertise to diagnose and treat atopic dermatitis promptly and effectively.

What does atopic dermatitis look like?

Atopic dermatitis can affect people in different ways. Common signs of atopic dermatitis include:

• Dry skin
• Red, inflamed skin
• Raised patches
• Itching
• Small bumps or blisters
• Cracking or oozing

While lesions are localized in some cases, atopic dermatitis is often widespread and affects several areas of the body.

Who gets atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis can affect people of all ages, but it’s more common in infants and young children. The condition often develops early in life, with symptoms appearing within the first few months after birth. 

Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing atopic dermatitis, including:

• A family history of atopic dermatitis
• Asthma and/or allergies
• Overactive immune system
• Environmental or occupational irritants
• Dry, cold climates

Your dermatologist at Shady Grove Dermatology works with you to identify your risk factors and develop the appropriate treatment plan.

Will atopic dermatitis go away on its own?

Some children experience spontaneous improvement or even resolution of atopic dermatitis as they grow older, but that’s not the case for most people.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition that lasts several years, often a lifetime. Managing flare-ups is the best way to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.

What are the treatments for atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis often requires a multifaceted treatment approach. After a thorough consultation during which your dermatologist conducts a skin evaluation and medical history review, your treatment plan may include:

• Topical or oral corticosteroids
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors
• Emollients and moisturizers
• Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors
• Oral antihistamines
• Wet wrap therapy
• Phototherapy
• Immunosuppressants
• Biologic medications
• Trigger avoidance

At Shady Grove Dermatology, your dermatologist works with you to identify your atopic dermatitis triggers and minimize flare-ups.

Call Shady Grove Dermatology today or use the online booking tool to schedule an atopic dermatitis consultation.