How does atopic dermatitis in children typically differ from adult-onset atopic dermatitis?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) in children differs from adult-onset AD in several ways:

Childhood AD (pediatric AD):

1. Age of onset: Typically begins in infancy or early childhood (before age 5).
2. Skin lesions: More likely to have small, oval-shaped patches on the face, neck, and extremities.
3. Distribution: Often affects the cheeks, forehead, and scalp.
4. Symptoms: Pruritus (itching), erythema (redness), and edema (swelling).
5. Triggers: More likely to be triggered by environmental factors like soaps, detergents, and food allergies.
6. Association with allergies: Often linked to other allergic conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies.

Adult-onset AD:

1. Age of onset: Typically begins after age 18.
2. Skin lesions: More likely to have larger, more localized patches on the hands, feet, and flexural areas (elbows, knees).
3. Distribution: Often affects the hands, feet, and flexural areas.
4. Symptoms: Pruritus, erythema, edema, and lichenification (thickening of the skin).
5. Triggers: More likely to be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, and environmental factors like pollution.
6. Association with allergies: Less likely to be linked to other allergic conditions.

Key differences:

– Childhood AD tends to be more widespread and have a stronger association with allergies.
– Adult-onset AD tends to be more localized and have a stronger association with stress and hormonal factors.

Keep in mind that these are general differences, and individual experiences may vary. Accurate diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional are essential for effective management of atopic dermatitis.