Rx Note

Introduction Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic, pruritic, inflammatory skin disease that occurs most frequently in children but also affects many adults. The lifetime prevalence of atopic eczema is 20%; begins in 90% between 3 months and 5 years of age. It persists into adult life in at least one quarter of cases. Clinical features of atopic dermatitis include Skin dryness Erythema Oozing and crusting Lichenification Affected individuals often have a family history of asthma , hay fever and/or type 1 food allergy (anaphylactoid reactions). Management Identify and, if possible, avoid possible triggers including Irritants, e.g. abrasive clothing, soaps/detergents (including bubble bath), raised temperatures, sweating, heavily chlorinated pools or spas Allergens, e.g. preservatives, fragrances, lanolin, nickel, aeroallergens (e.g. house dust mites, animal dander), foods (only avoid if confirmed by testing) The goals of treatment are to reduce symptoms (pruritus and dermatitis ),...

Introduction Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by an absence of pigmentation due to loss of functioning melanocytes. It usually starts between the ages of 10 and 30 years, and tends to be chronic and progressive . The disease is most disfiguring in darker skin types and can have a marked psychological impact (e.g. stigmatization, isolation and low self-esteem). Family support, counselling and cognitive behavioural treatment can be of benefit. Many patients have a family history of vitiligo and a personal or family history of other autoimmune disorders. Management For all patients, recommend avoidance of potential provoking factors , such as stress, sunburn, mechanical or chemical irritation. Wear protective clothing to minimize skin injury Sun protection Although there is no cure for the disease , the available treatments may halt the progression of the disease and induce varying degrees of repigmentation. Treatment modalities (topical, systemic or light-based therapies) are ...