Atopic dermatitis, Barrier, Environment, Hypersensitivity, Pathophysiology. Root Cause of Disease Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. It’s common in young children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare sometimes. It can be irritating but it’s not contagious. People with…