Risk factors influencing atopic dermatitis in children aged 0–12 years A single-center observational study.

Abstract

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is highly common in children. It is marked by eczema and itching and is closely linked to genetic factors. Its rates are rising, and its connection to other allergic diseases greatly affects quality of life. This study aimed to identify risk factors for AD in children aged 0 to 12 years at a provincial hospital in Ecuador.

Methodology: This observational study was conducted at the Verdi Cevallos Balda Provincial Hospital in Portoviejo, Ecuador, from September 2013 to February 2014. Records of patients aged 0 to 12 years who presented to the emergency department with a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis were included. The variables were: age, sex, origin, etiology, symptoms, associated external factors, comorbidities, lesions visible on physical examination, type of dermatitis, and treatment. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results: a total of 128 patients were analyzed. Sixty-eight were male (53.1%) and 60 were female (46.9%). Twelve cases (7.1%) were between 0 and 1 year of age, 12 cases (14.4%) were between 1 and 4 years, 33 cases (19.6%) were between 5 and 9 years, and 42 cases (28.6%) were between 10 and 12 years. Ninety-one percent of cases were from urban areas. Pruritus was the main symptom in 63% of cases. A family history of atopy was present in 70% of cases. External factors included food in 34%, insects in 27%, and medications in 9%. The most common lesions on physical exam were rashes (60%) and erythema (28%). Oral corticosteroids were used in 66% of patients, and antihistamines in 33% of cases.

Conclusions: A retrospective study of 128 children with atopic dermatitis showed a strong genetic tendency with family history and higher rates in urban areas. Itching was the main symptom that led to emergency visits. The main external triggers were food and insects, with treatment mainly focused on the use of oral corticosteroids.