Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, is triggered by various factors; ¹ However, a direct association with stress has been demonstrated, as it can act as a trigger for flare-ups in 40%–50% of cases.2 This relationship between stress and AD is bidirectional; that is, stress can worsen the disease, but atopic dermatitis itself and its treatments can also generate stress in patients, since physical lesions cause discomfort, stigmatization, and a negative self-perception.2

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that causes dryness, itching, and inflammation. Although common in early childhood, it can appear at any age, worsening periodically. It is not contagious, but it is very irritating. ^{1 and 6}

While the primary cause of this disease remains unknown, stress is one of the factors that increases the risk of developing atopic dermatitis or accelerates its progression. Therefore, psychological support can be considered a primary resource in the treatment of this disease, complementing the medical treatment prescribed by a doctor.² (See box: Detecting atopic dermatitis).

“The perception of having altered skin, considered socially unattractive, causes discomfort in these individuals, increasing stress and scratching, making atopic dermatitis a chronic stressor for the patient. That is why, through science, at Pfizer we want to transform the management of this and other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions with innovative therapies that target specific areas of the body where the problem is known to originate, allowing for a better quality of life for patients,” explained Dr. Eyra Medina, Medical Leader of Inflammation and Immunology at Pfizer Central America and the Caribbean (CAC).

According to the medical specialist, “chronic stress alters the normal functioning of various systems, such as the endocrine, nervous, immune, and psychological systems. These systems are interconnected; therefore, what affects one impacts and conditions the others. And the skin is related to all of these.”

Chronic skin disease causes stress and constant anxiety for those who suffer from it, due to difficulty sleeping, frequent itching and scratching, as well as difficulties accessing and responding to treatments. This can even lead to job loss.3

The value of early diagnosis, referral to a specialist, and timely treatment

There is no specific diagnostic test for atopic dermatitis (AD), so its diagnosis is made clinically based on history, morphology, distribution of skin lesions, and associated clinical signs. Early diagnosis minimizes other possible conditions associated with the disease, such as its relationship with asthma and allergies, including food allergies. ^{^4,5} Similarly, depression or anxiety, sleep loss, and other skin conditions, such as ichthyosis, which dries and thickens the skin, can also contribute to dryness and thickening. ⁵

The treatment of atopic dermatitis is aimed at preventing inflammation and dysfunction of the skin barrier, as well as the timely treatment of infections, should they occur. Early intervention could prevent further exposure to and sensitization to other allergens in later life. ^{^4,6}

In observance of World Atopic Dermatitis Day, patients are advised to identify and avoid irritating products that cause itching, as scratching often triggers flare-ups. ¹ Some common triggers include rough fabrics, dry skin, skin infections, heat, sweating, cleaning products, dust mites, mold, pollen, tobacco smoke, cold, dry air, fragrances, and irritating chemicals. 1

“It has been shown that health education, patient empowerment, support from patient associations, healthcare professionals and loved ones, and appropriate treatment can improve the course of the disease both physically and psychologically,” concluded Dr. Medina.

If you would like to learn more about AD, we invite you to visit our educational website “Health Connection”, where you will find different resources to understand and cope with the disease. Click here .

Advances that change patients' lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that significantly extend and improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety, and value in the discovery, development, and manufacturing of healthcare products. Our global portfolio includes some of the world's best-known medicines and vaccines. Every day, we work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical and innovative companies, we collaborate with healthcare professionals, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to trusted and affordable healthcare around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all those who rely on us.

- Rosa Maria Paniagua