Likewise, children with poor hygiene are at a lower risk for developing AD, as are children who drink unpasteurized milk. Allergens
In a small percentage of cases, atopic dermatitis is caused by sensitization to foods. Also, exposure to allergens, either from food or the environment, can exacerbate existing atopic dermatitis. Exposure to dust mites, for example, is believed to contribute to ones risk of developing AD. A diet high in fruits seems to have a protective effect against AD, whereas the opposite seems true for fast foods. Atopic dermatitis sometimes appears associated with celiac disease and nonceliac gluten sensitivity, and the improvement with a gluten-free diet (GFD) indicates that gluten is a causative agent in these cases. Role of Staphylococcus aureus
Colonization of the skin by the bacterium S. aureus is extremely prevalent in those with atopic dermatitis. Abnormalities in the skin barrier of persons with AD are exploited by S. aureus to trigger cytokine expression, thus aggravating the condition. Hard water
Atopic dermatitis in children may be linked to the level of calcium carbonate or "hardness" of household water, when used to drink. So far, these findings have been supported in children from the United Kingdom, Spain, and Japan. Pathophysiology
Excessive type 2 inflammation underlies the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis.Disruption of the epidermal barrier is thought to play an integral role in the pathogenesis of AD. Disruptions of the epidermal barrier allows allergens to penetrate the epidermis to deeper layers of the skin.
Pinch marks are a cutaneous condition, and when on the ears or in the genital region of male children may be suggestive of child abuse. See also
Runners rump
List of cutaneous conditions


== References ==