Atopic dermatitis - prevention and education of patients

Abstract

Why an article on prevention of atopic dermatitis and education of patients and their families? Well one might consider these two topics the two extremes of management of patients at risk from, or with, the condition. A physician might be called to intervene when families with risk factors for atopy consult at a very early stage (possibly even in pregnancy), and then again when a child has the disease expression. Without education in the management plan, all therapies for skin care are doomed to fail. Therefore, both these steps might be considered educational principles – education to avoid the condition if possible, and education to prevent flares of the condition. We are firm believers that the management of atopic and chronic conditions is centered on patient education.