ALLERGIC AND IMMUNOLOGIC DISORDERS 1.4 (AB) Flashcards
What are milia in newborns?
White lesions that are common and normal.
What is the appearance of erythema toxicum?
Flea-bite appearance. not extremely dry and only on the face.
What distinguishes measles from atopic dermatitis?
Measles has fever. conjunctivitis and infection signs.
What is the most common chronic relapsing skin disease in infants and children?
Atopic dermatitis (eczema).
What is the ‘atopic march’?
Progression from AD in infancy to food allergy. allergic rhinitis and asthma.
What causes atopic dermatitis?
Genetic defects in the skin barrier and immune response to allergens/microbes.
What percent of AD cases are IgE-mediated?
70-80%
What type of immune cells are increased in AD?
Eosinophils
What skin barrier functions are compromised in AD?
Moisture retention. lipid content. immune defense and structural integrity.
Why is severe dryness a hallmark of AD?
Due to defective skin barrier causing transepidermal water loss.
What are the categories of physical severity of AD?
Clear. Mild. Moderate. Severe
Describe mild AD.
Dry skin. infrequent itching. may have small red areas.
Describe severe AD.
Widespread dry skin. constant itching. excoriation. bleeding and thickening.
Where are AD lesions found in infants?
Face and extensor limbs; napkin area spared.
Where does AD present in adolescents?
Flexural folds. wrists. ankles. eyelids.
What are the major features of AD?
Pruritus. eczema pattern. chronic/relapsing course. atopic history.
What are associated features of AD?
Xerosis. infections. ichthyosis. hyperlinearity. high IgE. keratoconus. etc.
Is there a definitive lab test for AD?
No
What lab findings support AD diagnosis?
Eosinophilia and increased serum IgE.
What is the gold standard for identifying allergens?
History and environmental challenges.
How is AD diagnosed?
Based on pruritus. eczema pattern and chronic relapsing course.
What is the mainstay of AD treatment?
Skin moisturization and anti-inflammatory therapy.
Why is hydration important in AD?
It improves barrier function and symptom relief.
When should moisturizers be applied?
Right after bathing while skin is still moist.