Atopic dermatitis
ADAtopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disease marked by intense itch, dry skin and a weakened skin barrier, and it is the most common form of eczema.
It usually begins in infancy or childhood and often occurs alongside asthma, hay fever and food allergies, a grouping known as the atopic march. Affected skin appears red, scaly and thickened, typically on the face, neck, elbow creases and behind the knees, and scratching can lead to bleeding and infection. Flares are triggered by irritants, allergens, sweat, stress and changes in weather.
Diagnosis is clinical, based on the pattern and history of the rash, with allergy testing used selectively. Standard care centers on moisturizers, trigger avoidance and prescribed anti-inflammatory therapies. Topical cannabinoids have been examined in early research, and cannabidiol-specific clinical evidence for atopic dermatitis remains limited.