Background Atopic dermatitis (atopic eczema) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that
has reached epidemic proportions in children worldwide and is increasing in prevalence.
Because of the significant socioeconomic effect of atopic dermatitis and its effect on the
quality of life of children and families, there have been decades of research focused on
disease prevention, with limited success. Recent advances in cutaneous biology suggest
skin barrier defects might be key initiators of atopic dermatitis and possibly allergic …