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Condition

Pediatric Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Key points about atopic dermatitis in children

  • Atopic dermatitis is a long-term (chronic) skin condition. It's common in babies and children.
  • A child with allergies or family members with atopic dermatitis has a higher chance of having atopic dermatitis.
  • Itching, dryness and redness are common symptoms.
  • The goals of treatment are to ease itching and inflammation of the skin, increase moisture and prevent infection.
  • Staying away from triggers is important to manage the condition.
  • It usually gets better or goes away as a child gets older.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

Prevention and Risk Assessment

What is atopic dermatitis in children?

What causes atopic dermatitis in a child?

Which children are at risk for atopic dermatitis?

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis in a child?

How can I help prevent atopic dermatitis in my child?

When should I call my child’s health care provider?

Diagnosis

How is atopic dermatitis diagnosed in a child?

Treatment

How is atopic dermatitis treated in a child?

What are possible complications of atopic dermatitis in a child?

How can I help my child live with atopic dermatitis?

Next steps

Allergy Treatment at Children's National Hospital

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PATIENT STORY

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Providers Who Treat Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

    Departments that Treat Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

    Allergy and Immunology

    At Children's National, children affected by allergies and complex immunologic disorders benefit from our specialists' expertise, because our doctors treat children and only children with these conditions.

    Dermatology

    The Division of Dermatology at Children's National Hospital continues to expand services as more families seek our expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.

    IMPACT DC Improving Pediatric Asthma Care in the District of Columbia

    IMPACT DC Asthma Clinic is an award-winning pediatric asthma program in Washington, D.C., dedicated to improving asthma care and outcomes for children through clinical care, education, research and advocacy.