Abstract: The pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD) is not clear. There is abnormal metabolism of skin protein and lipid in the individuals with genetic inherent defects under the special environment, which leads to the damage of the skin barrier structure and the decrease of the level of NMF and antimicrobial peptides, the rising of TEWL and pH. The association between the abnormal skin barrier structure and the onset of AD is reviewed in this article.

Key words: atopic dermatitis, skin barrier, immune response, itch