Approximately 10 percent of infants and 3 percent of the U.S. population overall suffer from atopic dermatitis. It can be hereditary or simply caused by a variety of every-day conditions. Irritating factors in soaps, detergents, fabric softeners, certain types of clothing, and dyes or perfumes can aggravate the disease. Stress, dry skin, heat and sweating, low humidity, or allergies can also be irritants. Food allergy is proven as a cause in fewer than 10 percent of children.
Atopic dermatitis is characterized by a very itchy, burning rash.
In infants, spots tend to appear mainly on the face and scalp. In teens and young adults, the rashes typically occur on the elbow bends and backs of the knees, ankles and wrists and on the face, neck and upper chest. Although these are the most common sites, any body area may be affected. Atopic dermatitis is not contagious. In attempts to relieve the itchy feeling caused by the rash, individuals with the disease often seek relief by rubbing or scratching the itch.