Is atopic eczema hereditary?
Explore the genetic variants associated with atopic eczema.
Atopic eczema is one of the most common heritable skin diseases. Children of parents with atopy run a clearly elevated risk, and the genetic links are among the best mapped in dermatology.
What the analysis shows
DNAHelper shows which eczema-associated variants your raw file contains. The result is a statistical association — not a statement about your skin. The analysis is based on the traits atopic eczema, Eczematoid dermatitis (629 associated variants, strong evidence strength).
Which variants matter
FLG — the gene for filaggrin, a protein in the skin barrier — is the best-known link. Loss-of-function variants in FLG raise risk markedly and are also linked to dry skin and the allergic march.
Beyond the skin-barrier genes there are loci in immune-regulating genes — IL13, the IL4 region and others — that govern the atopic immune response.
What research has actually found
The FLG link is replicated in many populations and explains a measurable share of the heritability. But even carriers of loss-of-function FLG variants can have normal skin all their lives.
The severity of eczema varies more with age and environment than with individual variants — childhood eczema often resolves.
What matters more than genes
The environment steers the flare-ups: dry climate, washing habits, allergens and stress affect more than individual gene variants. For most people, daily emollient skincare is the factor that makes the biggest difference.
A predisposition in itself does not change care — symptoms needing treatment belong in healthcare regardless of what the genetics says.
Limitations — read this before interpreting the result
This is educational information about statistical associations — not a medical statement, not a health test and not a statement about your health. The analysis is based on the traits atopic eczema, Eczematoid dermatitis (strong evidence strength). If you suspect symptoms, contact healthcare — a predisposition is not a diagnosis.
Privacy: your file never leaves the browser
You pick your raw file locally — it is parsed and analysed entirely in your browser and is not uploaded for the standard analysis. The only exception is the optional DNA Chat feature where you, after explicit consent, can share selected variants. Read the privacy policy · What happens to your DNA file?
Compatible raw files
Works with raw data exports from MyHeritage, 23andMe, AncestryDNA and FamilyTreeDNA (.txt, .csv, .zip). The download guides show exactly where to find the file at your provider — and the file formats are explained here.
Also read: Method & science · All analyses · All traits · Skin pigmentation and genes