From Generalized Itch to Sustained Skin Recovery: A Longitudinal Case Report of Childhood Atopic Dermatitis

Abstract

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritus, xerosis, erythema, scaling and recurrent exacerbations. In children, persistent itching can interfere with sleep, daily activities and quality of life.

Case Presentation

A 10-year-old female student from Bangalore presented with a 5-year history of itchy, red and scaly lesions involving both hands, legs, back, abdomen, neck and face. The disease initially began on the hands and subsequently became generalized. Severe itching was particularly aggravated at night, during sleep, with sun exposure, dust, summer, perspiration and sugar intake. The patient reported severe xerosis, moderate scaling and thickness, mild redness and bleeding spots following scratching, with sleep disturbed by itching. Examination showed visible scaling on Wood's lamp examination and a positive Auspitz sign, with normal nails. She had a family history of eczema in an elder sister. The patient was managed with individualized homeopathic treatment along with moisturization, dietary measures and general skin-care advice.

Outcome

Serial follow-up over approximately 21 months documented progressive improvement. Initial widespread lesions subsequently showed reduction in itching, redness, thickness, cuts and oozing. By July 2026, lesions over most of the body had healed, with residual itching mainly over the face. At the latest August 2026 assessment, lesions over the legs, hands and face were reported as better, with reduced thickness, itching and redness and no further spread. Wood's lamp examination remained normal during follow-up.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates sustained clinical improvement documented through serial follow-up of a child with chronic eczema/atopic dermatitis. Because this is an uncontrolled case report, the observed improvement cannot establish causal efficacy of the intervention. Objective validated severity scores and standardized photographic assessment would strengthen future documentation.