Access Dermatology

History

A 40-year-old man presented to our department with a 2-month history of severe eczema, intensive pruritus and sleep disturbance. His medical history revealed atopic eczema and allergic rhinitis diagnosed early in childhood. Previous atopy patch tests with common aero-allergens disclosed sensitization against most common pollen, house-dust mites and animal dander. Since his last hospitalization 7 years ago, the disease has been satisfactorily controlled with irregular use of emollients, topical corticosteroids, antihistamines and, rarely, UV-light therapy. Recently, emotional stress led to a generalized and severe flare of atopic eczema. There was also a family history of atopy, as the patient's sister had an atopic eczema and his uncle suffered from asthma.