Question 1

What is atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and inflamed skin patches. It is caused by a combination of immune system dysfunction, genetic factors, and environmental allergen exposure including pet dander, dust mites, and pollen. The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for identifying specific environmental triggers that worsen atopic dermatitis symptoms.

Question 2

What causes atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis is caused by a combination of immune system dysfunction, genetic predisposition, and environmental allergen exposure. Common environmental triggers include pet dander from cats and dogs, dust mites, pollen, mold, and certain foods. Your skin barrier becomes weakened, allowing allergens and irritants to penetrate more easily while moisture escapes, leading to dry, inflamed, and itchy skin patches that characterize eczema flare-ups.

Question 3

What is the best test for atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Profile is the most important test for atopic dermatitis because it identifies specific environmental allergens that trigger or worsen your eczema flare-ups. This comprehensive blood test detects sensitivities to common triggers including cat dander, dog dander, dust mites, pollen, and mold spores. While blood tests cannot diagnose atopic dermatitis itself, identifying your specific allergen triggers allows you to develop targeted avoidance strategies and work with your healthcare provider on personalized treatment plans to reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms more effectively.

Question 4

When should I get tested for atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience recurring itchy skin patches that won't heal, notice your eczema flares up around pets or in certain environments, have a family history of allergies or asthma, or find that over-the-counter treatments aren't controlling your symptoms. Testing is especially important if you're unsure what triggers your flare-ups, as identifying specific allergens can dramatically improve your quality of life through targeted avoidance and treatment strategies.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis symptoms include intensely itchy skin, red or brownish-gray patches, small raised bumps that may leak fluid when scratched, and dry, cracked, or scaly skin. You might notice these patches most commonly on your hands, feet, ankles, wrists, neck, upper chest, eyelids, and in the bends of elbows and knees. The itching often worsens at night, and repeated scratching can lead to thickened, leather-like skin over time.

Question 6

Who is at risk for atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever are at highest risk for developing atopic dermatitis. Children are more commonly affected, though symptoms can persist into or begin in adulthood. You're also at increased risk if you have other allergic conditions, live in urban areas with higher pollution, experience frequent exposure to harsh soaps or chemicals, or have occupations requiring frequent hand washing. Cold, dry climates can also increase your risk of developing or worsening symptoms.

Question 7

What happens if atopic dermatitis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated atopic dermatitis can lead to serious complications including chronic skin infections from bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus entering through broken skin, permanent scarring and skin discoloration, and significant sleep disruption due to intense nighttime itching. You may develop neurodermatitis, where constant scratching causes thick, discolored, leathery patches. The condition can also severely impact your quality of life, leading to social anxiety, depression, and reduced productivity at work or school due to discomfort and self-consciousness about visible skin lesions.

Question 8

Can atopic dermatitis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis itself cannot be diagnosed with a blood test, as diagnosis is made through clinical examination of your skin and medical history. However, blood tests play a crucial role in identifying environmental allergen triggers that worsen your condition. Allergy blood tests measure IgE antibodies to specific allergens like pet dander, dust mites, and pollen, helping you understand what environmental factors are causing your flare-ups so you can avoid them and work with your healthcare provider on the most effective treatment approach.

Question 9

How is atopic dermatitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Atopic dermatitis is treated through a combination of moisturizing routines, topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation during flare-ups, and avoiding identified triggers. Your healthcare provider may prescribe topical calcineurin inhibitors, antihistamines to reduce itching, or antibiotics if skin infections develop. For severe cases, phototherapy or systemic medications like oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressants may be recommended. Daily application of fragrance-free moisturizers, identifying and avoiding allergen triggers through testing, and using gentle, hypoallergenic skincare products form the foundation of long-term management.

Question 10

How can I prevent atopic dermatitis flare-ups?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent flare-ups by moisturizing your skin at least twice daily with fragrance-free emollients, taking short lukewarm baths or showers instead of hot ones, and avoiding identified allergen triggers revealed through allergy testing. Use mild, fragrance-free soaps and detergents, wear soft breathable fabrics like cotton, and keep your home environment cool with moderate humidity levels. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as emotional stress can trigger flare-ups, and consider using dust mite covers on bedding if you're sensitive to dust mites.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with atopic dermatitis?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that help with atopic dermatitis include applying colloidal oatmeal baths to soothe itching and inflammation, using coconut oil as a natural moisturizer with antimicrobial properties, and taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements to reduce inflammation. Aloe vera gel can provide cooling relief to inflamed skin, while sunflower seed oil helps improve the skin barrier. Probiotics may support immune system balance, and stress-reduction techniques like meditation and yoga can help prevent stress-triggered flare-ups. Always moisturize immediately after bathing to lock in hydration and discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Atopic Dermatitis Blood Test

What is Atopic dermatitis?

What causes atopic dermatitis?

What is the best test for atopic dermatitis?

When should I get tested for atopic dermatitis?

References

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