Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema is an extremely common skin disease characterized by red patches, dry, scaling or crusting skin, and intense itch. It frequently develops in children during the first year of life and can become severe, with a consequently major impact on health-related quality of life. This text from international experts draws together the latest research on the disease and its management to show what options and help can be offered to patients.

Sakari Reitamo, Thomas A. Luger, Martin Steinhoff

1. Clinical Manifestations 2. Genetic Dissection 3. Pathogenesis 4. Spidermal Barrier Dysfunction 5. _Staphylococcus aureus_ 6. The Role of Viruses 7. The Role of Fungi 8. The Role of Food Allergens 9. The Role of Inhalant Allergens 10. Itch: Pathophysiology and Treatment 11. Psychosomatic Aspects 12. Quality of Life 13. General Management of Patients 14. Mode of Action of Glucocorticosteroids 15. Clinical Aspects of Glucocorticosteroids 16. Phototherapy 17. Antihistamines 18. Systemic Immunomodulation 19. Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors 20. Possible Clinical Associations with Bronchial Asthma 21. Experimental Therapies