Major Features

          * Intense itching

          * Characteristic rash in locations typical of the disease

          * Chronic or repeatedly occurring symptoms

          * Personal or family history of atopic disorders (eczema, hay fever, asthma)

Some Minor Features

          * Early age of onset

          * Dry skin that may also have patchy scales or rough bumps

          * High levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, in the blood

          * Numerous skin creases on the palms

          * Hand or foot involvement

          * Inflammation around the lips

          * Nipple eczema

          * Susceptibility to skin infection

          * Positive allergy skin tests

This article has been adapted from NIH Publication No. 03-4272. No information has been added. A few sections have been omitted as they were not strictly relevant. The full version and other useful health information is available by visiting our links section and clicking on NIAMS.