Archives of Family Medicine and General Practice

Review Article Pages 200-207

Atopic Dermatitis in the Adult Population

Authors: John R Baumann, Andrew D Groneck and Kari L Martin MD

Abstract: Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin characterized by cutaneous findings of dry skin, erythematous scaly papules, or plaques, and lichenification. The hallmark of AD is pruritis, which drives most of the disease burden. While this disease is thought to primarily affect children, it commonly affects adults as well [1]. In the adult population, AD may be persistent from childhood, relapsing AD that was thought to be resolved, or adult-onset AD. Although AD is commonly seen in the adult population and is associated with a significant disease burden, many providers are inadequately educated about the recognition and treatment of AD in adults. This paper will review the clinical features, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AD in the adult population. Working to better understand AD and its impact on patients may be beneficial in minimizing the burden of this disease on the adult population.

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