Eczema Essentials: Diagnosing and Managing Atopic Dermatitis in Practice

Episode summary

For primary care providers, seeing a patient presenting with atopic dermatitis (eczema) is common, yet misconceptions persist regarding its underlying cause and optimal management. This episode tackles the critical clinical dilemma: when and how should specific IgE testing for food and environmental allergens shape routine eczema care? Key topics include the evolution of pathophysiology—shifting focus from allergy-driven disease to barrier dysfunction and type 2 inflammation—plus risk stratification, differential diagnosis, the role and interpretation of specific IgE tests, evidence-based guideline updates, environmental and food allergen impacts, targeted therapeutics, and practical patient counseling. Special attention is given to environmental triggers such as dust mites and pet dander and structured elimination diets. Clinicians will gain actionable insights on refining diagnostic workups, individualizing treatment plans, and supporting long-term disease control in pediatric and adult eczema populations.