A national survey on practice habits was conducted from June to August 2004 within the framework of the consensus conference on the management of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children. The telephone survey involved a sample population of 100 dermatologists, 100 paediatricians, 100 general practitioners and 100 allergologists. The survey demonstrated the interest that those interviewed had with regard to AD and the frequency of the disease in daily practice. The severe forms are usually seen by the allergologists and dermatologists, but paediatricians also see a lot of mild or moderate AD in infants under the age of 2. The modalities of its management vary depending on the specialization, notably with regard to topical treatment. Hygiene and environment counselling provided by the practitioners is fairly homogenous. These results will help to assess the future modifications in practising habits, following the diffusion of the guidelines from the consensus conference.