Atopic Dermatitis, also known as atopic eczema, or eczema, is a common skin disease that can affect males and females of all ages, but often starts in childhood. Recent studies show at least 4-7% of adults and 15-25% of children to be affected, with one third of patients having severe disease. It results in very itchy, red, swollen, and cracked skin. Scratching worsens the symptoms and causes the skin to become thickened over time. Patients with atopic dermatitis have an increased risk of skin infections, and many also develop hay fever or asthma. Atopic dermatitis can cause significant distress to both patients and their families.