Relationship Between Atopic Dermatitis and Food Allergy in Children

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by a compromised skin barrier due to a variety of reasons, such as hereditary predisposition, immunological overactivity, and skin microbiome disruption. There is strong evidence linking food allergies (FA) with AD in some children, and many children with AD develop asymptomatic food sensitivity. FA and AD are two frequent childhood illnesses that are closely related. Food allergies affect 30% of kids suffering from moderate and severe eczema and can cause a variety of symptoms, including dry, cracked skin, rash, itchiness, oozing, and crusted skin. While preteens and teens with AD are commonly sensitive to environmental allergens including house dust mites, mold, pollen, or dander of animals, younger kids with AD typically exhibit sensitivity to food items like peanuts, milk, or eggs. A food challenge test (FC) should be used to confirm allergies before recommending a stringent diet that could be hazardous to the patient. While elimination diets continue to be the cornerstone of the management of FA, they should only be carried out under the guidance of a specialist. Topical treatments are crucial for all individuals with AD. Early skin care with emollients, topical steroid treatment, and early introduction of highly allergenic foods are promising methods of alleviating symptoms of AD.