Your baby: Atopic dermatitis

SKIN conditions in children are many, but the most common one to date is atopic dermatitis, a condition that Dr Anona Griffith, paediatrician at Gateway Plaza, Old Harbour, said is characterised by an itchy skin condition and generally starts as early as a few weeks to a year in a child’s life.

“The condition, more commonly known as eczema, atopic eczema or dermatitis, causes intense itching and so is naturally very worrying to parents because it can produce a fussy, miserable temperament. In addition, the appearance of the skin also can be very concerning because of associated rashes and lesions,” Dr Griffith explained.

She noted that the condition in most cases is genetic, and may be associated with conditions such as asthma. It affects specific sections of the body at different ages and stages.

“Its first appearance may differ according to the age group affected. In young babies, it usually appears first on the cheeks, scalp and forehead as dry, scaly patches. Another presentation, however, is that of bumps which may resemble small fluid-filled blisters which may ooze. These are at risk for becoming infected. In older children, the itchy, scaly rashes become more localised to the skin folds or creases of the elbows and knees, neck, ankles and wrists,” she said.

The condition, which is chronic in nature, could see children with severe forms of the condition having a leather-like thickening of the skin in the areas affected, as well as the appearance of pimples. The skin may also crack and bleed.

In general, the condition commonly improves with time, and is notably long-lasting with periods of flare-ups and other periods of rest. But Dr Griffith said these flare-ups may be prevented or effectively managed once consistency is maintained.

“The key tenet for managing atopic dermatitis is moisture ­— moisturise and moisturise some more. You also want to avoid triggers such as extremes of temperature, perfumes and soaps commonly present in laundry detergents, soaps and skin care products. Stress is also notorious for triggering flare-ups and should be limited as much as possible,” Dr Griffith advised.

Also, cognisant of the itchy nature of the skin rashes and other skin afflictions, it is important to minimise itching to decrease the complications associated with scratching.

You can:

•Use warm water to bathe and only for brief periods. Prolonged soaks in hot water will dry the skin.

•Use mild moisturising skin cleansers, preferably unscented and with limited sudding properties. Bubble baths should be avoided.

•Immediately after bathing, the skin should be lightly dried leaving some moisture before applying an effective moisturiser — thick in consistency is preferred. This too should be unscented or lightly scented.

•Newly bought clothing must be washed prior to wearing.

•Detergents including fabric softeners used for laundering clothing should be mild, and clothes should be rinsed well. Double rinsing is recommended.

In treating atopic dermatitis, doctors often recommend creams directed at reducing itching.

“These are usually steroid creams, the potency of which is prescribed based on the severity of the condition. There are newer non-steroidal options which have to be used cautiously. Also, antihistamines may be prescribed to help with itching. More intensive treatment may be required if there is no resolution or if the condition is severe,” Dr Griffith advised.

severe,” Dr Griffith advised.