Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is a common skin condition. "Atopic" refers to a heightened sensitivity toward allergens, leading to frequent, excessive immune reactions that inflame and irritate the skin (dermatitis). Other atopic diseases include allergic rhinitis and asthma. It is most common during childhood, with a prevalence of up to 25% of children affected, but can persist into adulthood; over a lifetime, 7–10% of people will get eczema at some point.[1]
What is eczema?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition characterized by heightened sensitivity to allergens, which results in inflammation and irritation of the skin. It primarily affects children, with up to 25% prevalence, but can also persist into adulthood and affects 7% to 10% of people over their lifetime.