What is atopic dermatitis (eczema)?

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic skin condition that causes patches of dry, scaly skin and is often extremely itchy. Eczema causes the outermost layers of the skin (epidermis) to turn very dry and causes the skin to flake, thicken, and crack. Most people with eczema develop it in childhood, although some adults do develop eczema. It is believed that genetics and environmental factors both play a role in causing eczema of the skin.