Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis

The Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis topic includes research on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of this condition. Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease. Skin affected by eczema is dry and itchy and can weep clear fluid when scratched. This condition can also make people more susceptible to skin infections. Researchers do not know what causes eczema, but genes, the immune system, and the environment likely all play a role. Atopic dermatitis improves by adulthood for many people; for others, it can be a lifelong illness.