atopic dermatitis, dry skin, contact dermatitis Flashcards
atopic dermatitis definition
chronic, relapsing, skin disorder characterized by redness and inflammation caused by an exaggerated reactivity from environmental stimuli +/- genetic component
atopic triad
atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis
epidemiology of AD
- most common dermatologic condition in children
- more common in males, Caucasians, in urban areas, and occurs in higher socioeconomic classes
signs and symptoms of AD
intense itching, vesicles and papules, chapping, redness, crusting and dry skin
2 months
location and signs of AD
location: chest and face
signs: red, raised vesicles, dry skin, oozing
2 years
location and signs of AD
location: scalp, neck, and extensor surface of extremities
signs: less acute lesions, edema, erythema
2-4 years
location and signs of AD
location: neck, wrist, elbow, knee
signs: dry and thickened plaques, hyperpigmentation
12-20 years
location and signs of AD
location: flexors, hands
signs: dry and thickened plaques, hyperpigmentation
xerosis common in
elderly population
xerosis is result
of decreased water content of the skin
exclusions for self treatment of atopic dermatitis and xerosis
- moderate - severe conditions with intense pruritus
- involvement of large area of body
- <1 year of age
- possible skin infection
- involvement of face or intertriginous areas
goals of therapy for atopic dermatitis and xerosis
- stop the itch/scratch cycle
- maintain skin hydration
- avoid or minimize aggravating factors
- prevent secondary infections
how to maintain skin hydration
drink plenty of water, avoid dehydration with improper bathing
soaps for AD and xerosis
- use glycerin bars, non soap cleansers, bath oils
- bath oil in bathwater is very good for xerosis
use of emollients in AD and xerosis
applied within three minutes of bathing and reapplied 3-4x daily prn
emollient examples
- petroleum emollients
- lubricating ointments
non pharm treatment for AD and xerosis
- drink plenty of water
- use humidifiers to maintain room hydration
- use cold compresses for wet oozing or crusty vehicles
cold compress examples
isotonic saline solution or wet cold compresses using tap water for 15-20 minutes at a time 4-6 times daily
avoid or minimize aggravating factors of AD or xerosis
- avoid irritating or tight clothing; cotton is recommended
- follow proper bathing techniques
- use of hypoallergenic cleansers
- use detergents and cosmetics without perfumes or fragrances
- avoid fabric softeners
AD pharm treatment
no cure, controlling symptoms
- hydrocortisone cream or ointment
- topical anesthetics
- antihistamines
- astringent compresses
- topical antibiotics
hydrocortisone application
apply sparingly 1-2 times daily with intermittent courses of therapy
do not use hydrocortisone longer than
7 days
hydrocortisone can be used on
neck, face, axillae, and groin (do not apply to > 20% BSA)