SEASONAL ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Abstract

"Atopic dermatitis" is the term now generally accepted for the condition previously most popularly known as neurodermatitis, flexural eczema and even "eczema." It is characterized by a dry, scaly and lichenified skin with small papular lesions. In acute attacks, the areas may become hot, vesiculated and oozing. The most characteristic locations are the cubital and popliteal areas, neck and wrists. Not infrequently the dermatitis becomes generalized. In recent years this dermatosis has been definitely grouped with the asthma—hay fever syndrome. Even authors who believe in the neurogenic or psychogenic basis for the disease do not deny this association. In the majority of instances of atopic dermatitis, the presence of other allergic manifestations, such as hyperesthetic rhinitis or asthma, is evident. A family history of allergy is common. Frequent positive reactions to cutaneous tests and eosinophilia are further links in the chain of evidence supporting the concept of the allergic nature