Atopy

Atopy is a hereditary condition in which patient is susceptible towards developing allergic hypersensitivity reactions when the patient is in contact with an allergen. The term "atopy" was coined by Coca and Cooke in 1923.

Presentation

Atopy is a condition of being hyper allergic. Atopy patients are presented with the following symptoms:
Eczema, rhinitis, conjunctivitis and/or asthma.

Causes

Atopy has a strong hereditary component and environmental factors.

It is hypothesised that extreme cleanliness in an infant’s environment may decrease the number of encounter with infectious stimuli and this will impair the proper development of child’s immune system causing development of Atopy.

Maternal diets like some antioxidants, lipids and Mediterranean diet also may increases the chance of getting this disease.

Excess use of antibodies and antipyretics are also a cause.

Signs and symptoms

Eczema, hay fever, allergic asthma and food allergies.

Presence of cracks on skin and under earlobes

The symptoms occurs only when the individual is exposed to certain allergens like pollen, dust mites or some chemicals.

When the patient is having an allergic reaction, there will be elevated levels of IgE in serum.

Treatment

Corticosteroids are used to treat allergic reactions. Ingestion and topical application of corticosteroids are practiced based on symptoms.

Immune modulators like Pimecrolimus and tacrolimus creams are used which interferes with T cells.

Patients with Atopy often have dry skin. Creams and others measures should be taken to prevent drying of skin.

Most importantly, Patients should avoid any expose to allergens and irritants.