Atopic dermatitis medical therapy
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
The primary treatment involves prevention, which includes avoiding or minimizing contact with (or intake of) known allergens. Once that has been established, topical treatments can be used. Topical treatments focus on reducing both the dryness and inflammation of the skin.
Treatment
To combat the severe dryness associated with eczema, a high-quality, dermatologist approved moisturizer should be used daily. Moisturizers should not have any ingredients that may further aggravate the condition. Moisturizers are especially effective if applied within 5-10 minutes after bathing.
Most commercial soaps wash away the oils produced by the skin that normally serve to prevent drying. Using a soap substitute such as aqueous cream helps keep the skin moisturized. A non-soap soap can be purchased usually at a local drug store. Showers should be kept short and at a lukewarm/moderate temperature.
If moisturizers on their own don't help and the eczema is severe, a doctor may prescribe topical steroid ointments or creams. Steroid creams have been traditionally been considered the most effective method of treating severe eczema. Disadvantages of using steroid creams include stretch marks and thinning of the skin. Higher-potency steroid creams must not be used on the face or other areas where the skin is naturally thin; usually a lower-potency steroid is prescribed for sensitive areas. Along with creams, antibiotics are often prescribed if an infection is suspected. If the eczema is especially severe, a doctor may prescribe prednisone or administer a shot of cortisone. If the eczema is mild, over-the-counter hydrocortisone can be purchased at the local drugstore.
The immunosuppressant Tacrolimus or pimecrolimus can be used as a topical preparation in the treatment of severe atopic dermatitis instead of traditional steroid creams. However, there can be unpleasant side effects in some patients such as intense stinging or burning.
Alternative medicines may (illegally) contain very strong steroids [1].
References
- ↑ Ramsay H M, Goddard W, Gill S, Moss C. Herbal creams used for atopic eczema in Birmingham, UK illegally contain potent corticosteroids. Archives of Disease in Childhood 2003; 88:1056-1057