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Disease directory

Atopic dermatitis

Published: September 18, 2026Updated: September 18, 2026

Important: Informational content intended for healthcare professionals. It does not replace clinical evaluation or establish a doctor-patient relationship.

Overview

  • Names/aliases: atopic dermatitis, atopic eczema; “Besnier’s prurigo” as a historical precursor. [show_150ms_ease-in] » data-testid=»webpage-citation-pill»> PubMed +1
  • First description: the term “atopic dermatitis” was coined by Wise and Sulzberger in 1933. Precursors: Hebra/Besnier prurigo. [show_150ms_ease-in] » data-testid=»webpage-citation-pill»> PubMed +2 PubMed +2
  • Epidemiology (high clinical impact): lifetime prevalence ~15–20% in children and 7–10% in adults; major contributor to the global burden of skin disease; chronic-relapsing and pruritic course. [show_150ms_ease-in] » data-testid=»webpage-citation-pill»> PubMed +1
  • Codes: ICD-10: L20 (includes L20.0 Besnier’s prurigo, L20.8, L20.9). ICD-11 (MMS): EA80 “Atopic dermatitis/Atopic eczema”.
  • Diagnostic checklist (quick):

    • Chronic pruritus + typical morphology/distribution + atopic history.

    • Assess severity (EASI/SCORAD) and quality of life (DLQI/POEM). [show_150ms_ease-in] » data-testid=»webpage-citation-pill»> PubMed

    • Rule out DAC if refractory course/suspicious location (patch test). [show_150ms_ease-in] » data-testid=»webpage-citation-pill»> PubMed

    • Biopsy only if diagnostic doubt; consider DIF if vasculitis/bullous.

  • Identify triggers (irritants, infections, stress).

Doctors who treat atopic dermatitis

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