Periauricular eczematization in childhood atopic dermatitis

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K H Kim1, J H Hwang, K C Park

  • 1Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Korea.

Pediatric Dermatology
|July 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Periauricular eczematization (PAE) is common in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) in Korea, often linked to Staphylococcus aureus. Topical antibiotics effectively treat these ear lesions.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Pediatrics
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin condition in children.
  • Periauricular eczematization (PAE) is a specific manifestation observed around the ears.
  • The role of Staphylococcus aureus in PAE requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of PAE in Korean children with AD.
  • To evaluate the clinical significance and treatment of PAE.
  • To explore the potential pathogenetic role of Staphylococcus aureus in PAE.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 107 children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis.
  • Classification of PAE into infraauricular and postauricular fissuring.
  • Bacterial cultures from ear lesions and assessment of treatment response to topical erythromycin.

Main Results:

  • PAE, specifically infraauricular and postauricular fissures, was observed in 64.5% of children with AD, significantly higher than controls (1.3%).
  • Staphylococcus aureus was identified in 12 of 14 oozing infraauricular fissures.
  • Topical erythromycin cream showed faster and more effective improvement of ear lesions.

Conclusions:

  • Periauricular eczematization is a characteristic clinical finding in pediatric atopic dermatitis.
  • Staphylococcus aureus likely plays a role in the pathogenesis of PAE.
  • Topical antibiotics are a recommended treatment for managing PAE in children with AD.

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