Atopic Dermatitis and Related Disorders

There are several dermatoses that are thought to be related to atopic dermatitis. These include pityriasis alba, seborrhoeic dermatitis, nummular eczema, pompholyx and prurigo. Pityriasis alba is characterized by hypopigmented patches that are covered with fine scales mainly localized on the face. It could be considered as a minor criterion for diagnosis of atopic dermatitis. Pompholyx usually appears as deep-seated vesicles or bullae, located mainly or commonly on the edges of the fingers, toes, palms and soles. It may be followed by scaling and lichenification of the skin. Nummular eczema is characterized by formation of pruritic discoid plaques commonly affecting the extensor surfaces of the limbs. Another type of dermatitis is seborrhoeic dermatitis that presents in areas of the skin that are rich in sebaceous glands. Lesions are erythematous, scaly plaques or take the form of cradle cap. Lichen simplex chronicus and prurigo are highly pruritic lesions that occur as a result of excessive itching of the skin. Corticosteroids in addition to calcineurin inhibitors are the main treatment.