Causes and Triggers

As in allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever), there is a genetic predisposition for atopic dermatitis. If both parents are allergic, the statistical probability for their children to develop one of these allergic diseases is up to 60 per cent. If only one parent is affected, the probability for an allergic disease in their children is 40 per cent.

Different factors play a major role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis: First, the original barrier of the epidermis is reduced due to a deteriorated lipdic film and a lack of urea in the skin. Second, eczematous reactions (redness, squamous areas and itching of the skin) are caused by a deregulation of the so called T cells in the dermis.

Although atopic dermatitis is not an allergic reaction in the strict sense, is very often associated with an exaggerated response of the immune system to environmental substances: inhalative allergens (pollen, animal hair, mould) can be absorbed through the skin. An acute episode of atopic dermatitis can be triggered or aggravated, e.g., by the ingestion of food allergen orby the onset of the pollen season if the patient is also affected by allergic rhinitis to pollen. Skin irritation and mechanical irritation, e.g., by water, heat or wool) may also promote an eczematous reaction. Furthermore, psychological factors, e.g., stress can influence the course of disease.

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