Food allergies and atopic dermatitis

Abstract

Atopic dermatitis, frequently referred to as atopic eczema, is a common illness that can cause significant psychological and financial burden to patients and their care givers. Therefore, it is not surprising that a cure is often sought. Patients, parents and carers are often concerned about the possibility of food causing or exacerbating the illness. It is not uncommon for patients and care givers to request investigation in the hope of identifying food items that maybe acting as triggers and of effecting improvement or cure with avoidance and dietary changes. This article seeks to review the relationship between atopic dermatitis and food allergies, as well as the relevance of diagnostic tests.