[Atopic dermatitis and psychological factors].

The role of stress on the triggering-off of flares of atopic dermatitis (AD) is the subject of a consensus. It is understandable because biochemical mediators are known to affect the cells implied in AD. The role of more complex psychological factors (depression, anxiety, and familial interaction) is highly probable but difficult to demonstrate. The psychological impact of AD is obviously severe. Psychotherapy provides beneficial effects on the impact but also on pruritus and scratching. Its effect on the AD lesions has rarely been studied but has been observed in many cases. Psychotropics can be useful but they should be handled with care in infants.