Abstract:

Several studies have demonstrated that the progression of allergic diseases during early childhood is often referred to as the atopic march. The atopic march refers to the natural history of allergic or atopic manifestations characterized by a typical series of clinical symptoms and conditions appearing during a certain age period and persisting over a number of years. Characteristic of the clinical signs is that some features become more prominent with time whereas others diminish or disappear completely. In general the clinical features of atopic dermatitis occur first and precede the development of allergic rhinitis and asthma. The pronounced global increase in the prevalence of atopic disease in recent years is a critical public health issue and has further increased the importance of early and accurate disease recognition. Understanding the natural history of these disorders and the interventions that may modify the development of allergy is essential in determining prognosis and providing advice for children at risk for allergic sensitization and disease.

Key words: atopic march, atopic diseases, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma