ATOPIC-DERMATITIS - IS IT AN ALLERGIC DISEASE

For many years controversy has surrounded the relation between allergy and atopic dermatitis. We critically review the evidence for the cont ribution of allergy, or IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions, to th e pathogenesis of this disease. We conclude that, at present, there is scant evidence that allergy is central to the development of atopic d ermatitis, although it may be an aggravating factor in a few patients. Hence there is little rationale for the routine use of allergy testin g or dietary and environmental manipulation in the management of this disease.