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Susceptibility to irritants: role of barrier function, skin dryness and history of atopic dermatitis
Author(s) -
TUPKER R.A.,
PINNAGODA J.,
COENRAADS P.J.,
NATER J.P.
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
british journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.304
H-Index - 179
eISSN - 1365-2133
pISSN - 0007-0963
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1990.tb01847.x
Subject(s) - transepidermal water loss , dryness , stratum corneum , atopic dermatitis , dry skin , dermatology , barrier function , skin barrier , irritation , atopy , medicine , irritant contact dermatitis , contact dermatitis , allergy , immunology , pathology , biology , microbiology and biotechnology
summary The susceptibility of the skin to various irritants was investigated with the aim of determining the role of the barrier function of the stratum corneum, skin dryness and whether a history of atopic dermatitis (AD) was a factor. The transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured using an evaporimeter and skin hydration using a Corneometer and by visual scoring. The group with a history of AD ( n = 20) had a lower pre‐exposure barrier function and a higher TEWL value following irritant exposure than the group with a history of allergic contact dermatitis ( n = 18) and a control group ( n = 18). Clinically dry skin was more susceptible than normal skin, though no difference was noted in the pre‐exposure barrier function. The increased susceptibility to irritants in those with a past history of AD was probably due to impaired barrier function. The increased susceptibility to irritants in those with a past history of AD was probably due to impaired barrier function and/or the presence of a dry skin.