Atopic Dermatitis PDF

Preface

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions found in the general population. Patients afflicted with skin disease suffer greatly as it adversely affects their quality of life. This book offers a new, integrating view of all aspects relevant to the complex pathophysiology of this disorder. Each chapter provides a comprehensive and up-to-date review of a particular field of research and also considers links to other pathomechanisms of this disease. All aspects—especially the newest immunoallergological and biochemical concepts—are thoroughly discussed with regard to established, experimental, and potential new therapeutical strategies.

The book is divided into several parts to make a clear presentation of the various aspects of this disease. Part I examines the impact of atopic dermatitis, addressing the epidemiological, psychological, and socioeconomic effects of this disease. A distinction is also made between allergic vs. non-allergic atopic dermatitis. Part II provides an overview of the general mechanisms with in-depth discussions on the immunogenetics, risk factors, skin barrier function, and immunologic basis of atopic dermatitis including the pathophysiology of itching, which is the most prominent feature of this skin disease. Part III focuses on the individual cell types that contribute to atopic dermatitis and therefore provides potential therapeutic targets for intervention. Part IV reviews the immunologic triggers (foods, inhalants, bacteria, and fungi) that aggravate atopic dermatitis, and discusses how to prevent them from becoming such a problem. The final part of the book deals with management. How should skin care be approached? What is the current state of the art in treatment and what new treatments are on the horizon?

As atopic dermatitis is a highly prevalent skin disease and provides important insights into mechanisms of allergic skin immune responses, clinicians from many specialties, including dermatologists, allergists, family practitioners, and pediatricians as well as medical students and experimental investigators will benefit from this work, which gives the information necessary for understanding the modern management of atopic dermatitis.