What is atopic eczema?

Atopic eczema is an inflammation of the epidermis (the upper layer of skin) caused by atopy. Eczema is covered in more detail in another article.

Skin, on contact with an allergen, can become red, itchy, and flaky, and very vulnerable to infection. The reaction is most common over the inner parts of certain joints, such as the inner surface of the elbow and the back of the knee. This reaction can be made worse by exposure to sunlight.