Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. It primarily affects children and infants, but can also manifest during adolescence or in adulthood. Eczema results from a specific interaction between genetics and environment, and appears upon exposure to allergens (dust mites, animal fur, pollens...).
According to several studies, 50 to 70% of children affected by eczema have a first-degree relative (father, mother, brother or sister) who has also been affected. Those suffering from itsecrete large amounts of immunoglobulin E, antibodies, in response to environmental antigens (also called allergens).
This pruritic disease causes itching and can also induce skin lesions, as well as skin dryness. Indeed, the natural and protective hydrolipidic film of the skin is lacking on atopic skin. Allergens then penetrate more easily into the epidermis and react with immune cells (lymphocytes), thus causing an inappropriate inflammatory response.
Eczema can appear on various parts of the body. Red patches may manifest on the face, back, neck, hands, feet, and flexion folds.