Final answer:
Acute allergic dermatitis, or eczema, is characterized by inflamed, itchy, and sometimes flaky patches of skin. It is treated with moisturizers and medications and diagnosed through skin tests or observational history of allergen exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Allergic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is an allergic reaction that presents as dry, itchy patches of skin, sometimes accompanied by swelling, flaking, and in severe cases, bleeding. Although many individuals with eczema have antibodies against dust mites present in their blood, the precise connection between eczema and a dust mite allergy is not fully proven. Management of allergic dermatitis often includes the use of moisturizers, corticosteroid creams, and immunosuppressants to alleviate symptoms.
The diagnosis of allergic dermatitis can include skin testing to identify allergens, especially in cases of type I hypersensitivity reactions. This involves the introduction of allergen extracts into the epidermis and observing for a wheal and flare response, indicating a positive reaction to the allergen. Moreover, an awareness of contact with new substances or products, such as a change in sunscreen, can be a crucial factor in recognizing the cause of a skin allergic reaction, as noted in the clinical case of a teenage girl.