Principles of complementary food introduction in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common inflammatory skin disorders. In most patients, AD is a starting point for developing other atopic diseases, e.g., food allergy, allergic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, allergic rhinitis, and asthma known under the umbrella of "atopic march". In addition to genetic predisposition, various environmental factors are essential for the development of this dermatosis. In young children, food is the most relevant factor. This paper discusses principles of the selection of complementary food, techniques, and terms of its introduction. Prolonging of breastfeeding, the adequate introduction of complementary food, and personified nutrition program prevent the atopic march. The authors highlight that there is no special diet for atopic dermatitis. Meanwhile, food should be safe, low allergy, and balanced to provide a child with essential macro-and micronutrients. In addition, the paper addresses the utility and validity of an elimination diet which should be prescribed only in established food sensitization and used under the control o f a specialist. KEYWORDS: atopic dermatitis, atopic march, infancy, early childhood, nutrition, complementary foods, prevention. FOR CITATION: Botkina A.S., Dubrovskaya M.I. Principles of complementary food introduction in atopic dermatitis. Russian Medical Inquiry. 2021;5(6):421–426 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2587-6821-2021-5-6-421-426.