Getting more and more complex: the pathophysiology of atopic eczema

Eur J Dermatol. 2007 Jul-Aug;17(4):267-83. doi: 10.1684/ejd.2007.0200. Epub 2007 Jun 1.

Abstract

Atopic eczema (AE) is a multifactorial chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by pruritic, typically distributed eczematous skin lesions. Deficiencies in innate and adaptive immunity based on a genetic predisposition result in skin barrier dysfunction with hyperreactivity to environmental stimuli and susceptibility to skin infections which influence the course and severity of AE. In this review, we provide an overview of the complex pathophysiology of AE with a focus on recent advances published in this field.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dermatitis, Atopic / genetics
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / immunology
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / physiopathology*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Mast Cells / physiology
  • Skin / physiopathology