A disease is any abnormal condition of the body usually caused by alien pathogens or viral infections. In other words, disease is any condition that tends to affect the normal functioning of the body. Contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis are both infections related to skin disorders. They also have almost common signs and symptoms which include skin scaly and itchy rashes among others. Both diseases assume symptoms of allergic reactions due to the presence of skin rashes. However, starting with cell morphological organization, both diseases tend to differ (Weston, 2012).
Contact dermatitis is a state in which the outer layer of the skin or the epidermis turns out to be red-looking or tender subsequent to straight contact with substances known to cause allergic reactions. In this case, this disorder is grouped into two depending on the allergic substance involved. These groups include irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. Common irritant dermatitis is caused by substances with the capacity of skin corrosion. These substances include: acids, alkaline substances, cement, shampoos, rubber gloves and pesticides among others. However, it is important to note that some skins are naturally sensitive to some substances. The effects which result from making contact with these substances vary from one individual to the other (American Academy of Dermatology, 2012).
On the other hand, contrary to contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis is a chronic epidermis disorder that is characterized by scaly and itchy rashes. Four types of this skin disorder include contact dermatitis, Dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema and Seborrheic dermatitis. It is also characterized by intense itching which eventually results in rashes due to the scratching effect of the affected areas. More rashes appear with the spread of itchy feeling across the affected part of the skin. Atopic dermatitis makes the skin prone to more skin infections especially those that are known to take advantage of body weakness. These diseases include bacterial, fungal, and viral infections which penetrate through the open wounds on the skin.
When it comes to the treatment, care should be taken since the two skin disorders are always confused, due to their common symptoms and effect. A quick remedy when it comes to contact dermatitis is the act of rinsing the affected area with plenty of water to avoid further exposure of the skin to the irritant. The application of skin moisturizer also plays a critical role when it comes to the healing of the affected part. Antibiotics may also be applied in order to suppress the immune system in the body. A medical practitioner may also prescribe some drugs to suppress the immune system (Habif, 2010).
On the other hand, being a long-term skin disorder, atopic dermatitis can be controlled by ensuring that the skin is treated on daily basis, till the disorder is completely suppressed. Antibiotic creams or moisturizers play a fundamental role when it comes to the management of this disorder. Other treatment procedures include: phototherapy, the use of short-term systemic steroids and finally the use of drugs known to suppress the immune system.
Despite the similarities, these diseases tend to differ when it comes to treatment as well as signs and symptoms. While contact dermatitis skin disorder affects an individual, atopic dermatitis is often associated with genetic hereditary. In that case, a quick review of family history may enable the medical practitioner to establish if the skin disorder is atopic or contact dermatitis. Being a chronic disease, one can quickly distinguish one infection from the other. Contact dermatitis only appears after a long exposure to acidic or alkaline substances. Sufficient breastfeeding formula also plays an important role when it comes to the prevention of atopic dermatitis in children. It is always important to read the manufacturer’s instructions before using any substances which may come into contact with your skin so as to take precautions (Weston, 2012).
References
American Academy of Dermatology. (2012). Eczema/atopic dermatitis. Web.
Habif, T.P. (2010). Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy (5th ed.). New York, N.Y.: Mosby Elsevier.
Weston, W.L. (2012). Overview of dermatitis. Web.