State-of-the-art review on atopic eczema, one of the most common skin diseases today. This multi-authored handbook covers all aspects relevant for physicians from various disciplines.

Advances in itch research have elucidated differences between itch and pain but have also blurred the distinction between them. There is a long debate about how somatic sensations including touch, pain, itch, and temperature sensitivity are encoded by the nervous system. Research suggests that each sensory modality is processed along a fixed, direct-line communication system from the skin to the brain. Itch: Mechanisms and Treatment presents a timely update on all aspects of itch research and the clinical treatment of itch that accompanies many dermatological conditions including psoriasis, neuropathic itch, cutaneous t-cells lymphomas, and systemic diseases such as kidney and liver disease and cancer. Composed of contributions from distinguished researchers around the world, the book explores topics such as: Neuropathic itch Peripheral neuronal mechanism of itch The role of PAR-2 in neuroimmune communication and itch Mrgprs as itch receptors The role of interleukin-31 and oncostatin M in itch and neuroimmune communication Spinal coding of itch and pain Spinal microcircuits and the regulation of itch Examining new findings on cellular and molecular mechanisms, the book is a compendium of the most current research on itch, its prevalence in society, and the problems associated with treatment.

First published in 1997. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema is an extremely common skin disease characterized by red patches, dry, scaling or crusting skin, and intense itch. It frequently develops in children during the first year of life and can become severe, with a consequently major impact on health-related quality of life. This text from international experts draws t

This book presents the state of the art in research into atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema, and provides numerous effective practical management recommendations that are grounded in the immense clinical experience of the author. A scientific evidence-based approach to the subject is adopted, progressing from clinical symptoms in different disease stages, molecular genetics, and pathophysiology through to treatment and prevention. All aspects of patient management are covered, including diagnostics, avoidance strategies, emollient therapy, and acute treatment of eczema and itch. Diverse special therapeutic approaches are discussed, ranging from glucocorticoids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, and antimicrobial therapy through to UV therapy, allergen-specific immunotherapy, systemic immunosuppressive therapy, and emerging options. Environmental influences are considered, and there is a focus on the whole human being, with attention to psychosocial aspects of the disease and the benefit of educational programs such as “eczema schools”. Atopic Dermatitis will be invaluable for dermatologists, allergists, pediatricians, and general practitioners and informative for other interested persons and sufferers.

A wide-ranging account of the epidemiology of atopic eczema, its prevalence and possible causes.