A study released last week by JAMA Dermatology reveals that eczema, once thought to mostly effect children, can impact individuals into adulthood. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine followed more than 7,000 children, most of whom developed atopic dermatitis before their second birthday.
Prior to this study, it was assumed that most cases of atopic dermatitis (eczema) would resolve by age 12. This study shows that the itchy rash plagues children well into adolescence and early adulthood.
Atopic dermatitis presents as a dry, itchy, red rash, which can lead to oozing skin, and the formation of small blisters. Many environmental conditions can cause dermatitis flares, including dry air, seasonal allergies, certain soaps and detergents, and cold weather.
If your child has atopic dermatitis, using sensitive skin products and teaching the importance of moisturizing routines early in life may help them to avoid embarrassing rashes later in life.
The Specialist doctor from the University Hospital in Gothenburg, alumnus UC Berkeley. My doctoral dissertation is about Digital Health and I have published 5 scientific articles in teledermatology and artificial intelligence and others.
