Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 21, 2026

Effects of Exposure of Formaldehyde to a Rat Model of Atopic Dermatitis Induced by Neonatal Capsaicin Treatment
Published on: September 27, 2017
A practical overview of pediatric atopic dermatitis, part 1: epidemiology and pathogenesis
1Mount Sinai St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital and Beth Israel Medical Centers of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
Insights
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting children, impacting their quality of life. This review covers AD epidemiology, pathogenesis, and skin barrier function, with future parts addressing triggers and treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Immunology
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent inflammatory condition within the atopy spectrum.
- It affects roughly 25% of children in developed nations, significantly impacting quality of life.
- AD involves hyperreactivity to environmental allergens and irritants, affecting skin barrier function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis.
- To provide an overview of skin barrier function in the context of AD.
- To lay the groundwork for subsequent discussions on AD triggers, diagnosis, and management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on epidemiological data.
- Synthesis of current understanding of AD pathogenesis.
- Examination of research on skin barrier dysfunction in AD.
Main Results:
- Atopic dermatitis is a widespread condition, particularly in pediatric populations.
- The pathogenesis involves complex immune system dysregulation and impaired skin barrier.
- Skin barrier defects are a key feature contributing to AD.
Conclusions:
- Understanding AD epidemiology and pathogenesis is crucial for effective management.
- Skin barrier dysfunction is central to AD development and severity.
- This review serves as an introduction to a comprehensive series on atopic dermatitis.
Abstract:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multisystem inflammatory disorder that is part of the spectrum of atopy, a series of conditions in which hyperreactivity and allergic symptoms are triggered by a series of causes including environmental allergens and irritants. Atopic dermatitis affects approximately one-quarter of children in developed countries and can have a negative impact on quality of life. In part 1 of this series addressing AD, the epidemiology and pathogenesis of AD are reviewed with an overview of skin barrier function. Later parts will address triggers, AD grading, differential diagnosis, comorbidities, and treatment options.
Related Concept Videos
Acne Infection
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Overview and Drug Absorption
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Asthma-I: Introduction

