The skin of the allergic patient is dryer. Genetic predisposition, changes in immune system and interaction with environmental factors contribute to the development of allergic diseases. Atopic dermatitis can manifest at any age, being more prevalent in infancy. It is a chronic, multifactorial disease of varying severity, evolving in outbreaks. It may be associated with other allergic diseases such as rhinitis and asthma. The lesions are characteristic of each age group. The itching is always intense. In atopic dermatitis, the skin barrier is compromised. Thus, the skin is more susceptible to bacterial, fungal and viral infections, which can aggravate the symptoms of illness. Because of scratching, the lesions can become infected, causing impetigo, which is the most common bacterial infection in children between 2 and 5 years old. Adults can also be affected.
It is a contagious disease and very common in Summer months. Patients who are allergic to insect bites may also have a secondary infection, such as impetigo, cellulitis and erysipelas. These infections can cause swelling, pain, and worsening local redness. Erysipelas reach the most superficial layers of the skin; while the cellulitis, the deeper layers and the fat that is under the skin. Molluscum contagiosum is an infection caused by a virus, which can also affect allergic patients. The lesions are papules (« little balls » ) measuring 2 to 5 mm, with a bright and skin-colored.
The lesions can be removed using medications or procedures. The simple herpes virus can cause severe infections in patients with atopic dermatitis, manifesting itself in a disseminated way, causing fever and malaise. Skin care should be routinely maintained. In case of signs of infections, look for an expert !
Reference:
Yue H, Umehara Y, Trujillo-Paez JV, Peng G, Nguyen HLT, Chieosilapatham P, Kiatsurayanon C, Song P, Okumura K, Ogawa H, Ikeda S, Niyonsaba F. Exogenous factors in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis: Irritants and cutaneous infections. Clin Exp Allergy. 2021 Mar;51(3):382-392.
