$Unique_ID{BRK00795}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{A Diagnosis of "Tropical Dermatitis" for Someone Who Hates the Sun}
$Subject{dermatitis atopic rash}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


A Diagnosis of "Tropical Dermatitis" for Someone Who Hates the Sun


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QUESTION:  What can you make out of a diagnosis of "tropical dermatitis" for
someone who hates the sun, and certainly hasn't been in the tropics.  This is
the diagnosis from my doctor.  I am a high school freshman and need some
answers from you.  Please help.

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ANSWER:  Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin.  Since I know of no
condition actually called "Tropical Dermatitis,"  I think I can safely assume
from your brief history that what you have is "atopic dermatitis".  This type
of skin condition usually occurs in people with a family history of allergic
conditions.  As many as 5% of the people in the United States are believed to
have this condition which causes an itchy rash.
     Researchers don't know exactly what causes atopic dermatitis, just that
it is inherited and is connected to an allergy.
     Diagnosis of atopic dermatitis can be made by checking your family's
history and by your doctor's examination of your skin.  This same condition is
sometimes referred to as eczema.  Treatment is usually topical--medications
which you apply to the skin.  Cortisone derivative creams or ointments or
antibiotics may be prescribed.  In some mild cases, cold compresses may do the
trick.  You can help yourself be avoiding contact with things that commonly
cause itching, such as certain soaps, detergents, some perfumes, dust, furs,
wools and synthetic or scratchy fabrics.  Bathing too frequently can worsen
the condition by drying out the skin.  Above all, don't scratch.  It will
aggravate the rash, can cause bleeding and may damage the skin.  Scratching
can lead to a secondary bacterial infection which will only complicate
matters.
     This is not a serious condition when treated properly. . . just a
nuisance.
     One positive thing is that this disease often burns itself out, so that
many people who have suffered through childhood, the teen years and young
adulthood with atopic dermatitis are often free of it by age 30.
    I hope this is the case for you.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
