Atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition characterized by recurring eczema accompanied by itching.

Causes of Onset

1. Genetic Factors
   ・People with a family history of atopic dermatitis, asthma, or other allergic conditions are more prone to developing it.
   ・Individuals with a high level of IgE antibodies (substances produced by the body in response to foreign substances) are also at higher risk.
2. Environmental Factors
   ・Living environment, air pollution, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices can contribute to its onset.
3. Dry Skin and Allergic Constitution
   ・These predispositions combined with environmental factors can trigger the condition.

Importance of Infant Skin Care

• Key Points for Prevention
  ・Keep the skin clean.
  ・Prevent dryness with moisturization.
  ・Treat eczema promptly to maintain good skin condition.

Why It Feels "Difficult to Cure"

Atopic dermatitis may persist for a long time if appropriate treatment is not administered.

• Leaving inflammation untreated makes it harder to resolve.
• Symptoms often improve temporarily but may easily recur.

Key Treatment Points

1. Topical Treatments Are Fundamental
   ・Proper application is crucial.
   ・The proactive therapy approach, which involves continuing to apply topical treatments for a certain period even after symptoms improve, is highly effective.
   　・This suppresses underlying inflammation and prevents relapse.
   ・Once the condition stabilizes, treatment can focus on moisturizers alone to manage symptoms.
2. Other Treatment Options
   ・For severe or treatment-resistant cases in adults, oral medications and injections are combined with topical treatments.

The Importance of Continuing Treatment

• Atopic dermatitis often requires long-term treatment.
• It is important for patients not to give up and to share treatment goals with their doctor while progressing together.

Efforts at Hiroshima University Hospital Dermatology Department

• The department sees approximately 500 patients annually, including around 100 new cases.
• For severe cases, hospitalization is available.
• By teaching proper application methods and sharing knowledge about the condition, the department aims to address patients' concerns effectively.

Atopic dermatitis can be controlled with appropriate treatment and consistent care. The key to improvement is not to give up and to work closely with your doctor.