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How Referral to an Allergy/Immunology Physician can Help in the Diagnosis and Management of Dermatitis
1. Allergy/Immunology Physicians can help to Diagnose Atopic Dermatitis
- Dermatitis is a form of rash that is basically an inflammation of the skin and can be from a variety of causes. Allergy/Immunology physicians have expertise in the diagnosis of different forms of dermatitis, and especially in the diagnosis and care of atopic dermatitis. Confirming the correct diagnosis for dermatitis is crucial to making sure the best treatment is given
- Allergy/Immunology physicians can confirm or exclude the presence of an allergic contribution to a persons’ dermatitis. Allergies frequently are a factor in atopic dermatitis.
2. Allergy/Immunology Physicians Can Identify and Manage Dust Mite Allergy in Persons with Atopic Dermatitis
- It is clear that allergy to dust mites, a very common allergen, may worsen atopic dermatitis in a number of persons. Allergy/Immunology Physicians have expertise in the diagnosis of allergy to dust mites, and other allergens.
- Once dust mite allergy has been identified, Allergy/Immunology Physicians can provide education on the best methods of avoiding dust mites.
- There is evidence that avoidance of dust mites in persons with atopic dermatitis who are allergic to dust mites provides better control of their rash and symptoms.
3. Allergy/Immunology Physicians can Identify the Role of Food Allergy in Persons with Atopic Dermatitis
- Is is estimated that approximately one-third of young children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis have food allergy contributing to their disease. Food allergy is less common in adults, but still possible.
- Allergy/Immunology Physicians are able to demonstrate the presence of allergic antibody to foods and, if necessary, perform food challenges which can help to confirm the diagnosis of food allergy
- There is evidence that, particularly in young children, avoiding foods to which they are allergic can improve atopic dermatitis
4. Allergy/Immunology Physicians can Help in the Treatment of Persons with Atopic Dermatitis which Responds Poorly to Treatment
- Some persons, often children, with atopic dermatitis have particularly severe disease which may be difficult to control with usual first-line treatment options
- Allergy/Immunology Physicians are specially trained in managing atopic dermatitis in both children and adults. That expertise includes knowledge and use of the wide array of medicines available for treatment.
5. Allergy/Immunology Physicians Can Diagnose and Identify the Cause of Contact Dermatitis
- Different chemical compounds can cause a rash on contact with the skin, known as contact dermatitis. Poison ivy rash is one example of a contact dermatitis. Chemicals in makeup, perfumes and a number of other daily items can also cause contact dermatitis.
- Allergy/Immunology Physicians are trained in the diagnosis of contact dermatitis. A significant number of Allergy/Immunology Physicians, more than the number of dermatologists, perform patch testing, which can help to identify the cause of contact dermatitis
- Once the cause has been identified, Allergy/Immunology Physicians are skilled in education regarding avoidance of the specific chemicals causing the rash to prevent future episodes
- Allergist-immunologists are also experts in the use of medications to treat contact dermatitis that has already occurred
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