Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD), or eczema, is a common skin disease that is often associated with other atopic disorders, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. The disease can develop both in infancy and adulthood, and characterizes with recurrent episodes impairing the quality of life. The review аnalyzes the genetical, immunological, and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of AD. The role of the skin barrier function is also considered in regard of the main hypotheses for AD development. Further elucidation of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of AD could give interesting and useful clues for therapeutic protocols and prophylactic approaches.