Atopic Dermatitis in Skin of Color

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease which occurs worldwide. It is a chronic relapsing eczematous skin disorder associated with xerosis and pruritus. AD is widespread in industrialized countries with an overall prevalence of 10--20{\%} among school children from the USA and parts of Europe. The countries in South Europe and the African continent show lower prevalence; however, it is a growing clinical problem in sub-Saharan Africa. In West Africa and other parts of the continent, the incidence of AD is considered to involve around 5{\%} of the population, and this rate is still rising. Atopic dermatitis can occur at any age but usually develops in childhood. Its acute phase occurs during infancy and has a predilection for the face and extensors. As the children grow older, the skin lesions become chronic and lichenified, usually involving the flexural areas. There is often an association of AD with a personal or family history of atopy, e.g., asthma, allergic conjunctivitis, and allergic rhinitis.