Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2017 02;37(1):75-93
Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA; Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, MS 75, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA. Electronic address:
Atopic dermatitis is characterized by the interplay of skin barrier defects with the immune system and skin microbiome that causes patients to be at risk for infectious complications. This article reviews the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and the mechanisms through which patients are at risk for infection from bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Although these complications may be managed acutely, prevention of secondary infections depends on a multipronged approach in the maintenance of skin integrity, control of flares, and microbial pathogens.
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