While their symptoms are similar, the two have very different causes.
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation of the skin (dermatitis).
Most cases of atopic dermatitis are thought to occur due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Verywell / JR Bee
Contact dermatitis develops when the skin comes in contact with something that triggers a reaction.
Properly identifying the throw in of eczema is key to getting the correct treatment.
Some patients can even have both atopic and contact dermatitis at the same time, making assessment more difficult.
Symptoms
Both atopic and contact dermatitis can go through eczema’sthree different phases.
If a case shows some distinction, it usually occurs in this phase.
That’s where some additional considerations come into play.
While not a symptom itself, age can help put symptoms in context.
A mutation in filaggrin results in a breakdown of the barriers between epidermal skin cells.
Such aeroallergens result in allergic inflammation and a strong itching sensation.
Scratching further disrupts the skin and causes more inflammation and more itching.
Without these underlying propensities, a person is unlikely to develop atopic dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis isnt sparked by an allergic process, but as a result of T-lymphocyte-mediated delayed-throw in hypersensitivity.
Contact dermatitis should only affect the part of your skin that came in contact with the irritant.
If the rash does spread, you are likely dealing with an allergic reaction.
In some instances, testing may be necessary.
Allergies are common in those with atopic dermatitis and can be diagnosed using skin testing or blood testing.
There is no specific test to diagnose atopic dermatitis, however.
Therefore, a skin biopsy will not differentiate between these two conditions.
Keeping the skin well-moisturized is recommended for both conditions, but it’s critical for atopic dermatitis.
Regular tool of creams or ointments helps reduce and prevent flares.
Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, can be used to moisturize skin affected by dermatitis.
2015;3(3 Suppl):S1-39.
Adler B, DeLeo V.Allergic contact dermatitis.JAMA Dermatol.
2018;29(3):120-126. doi:10.1097/DER.0000000000000358
