Atopic Dermatitis
An Introduction to Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disorder, the prevalence of which is increasing. It is caused by interactions between the epidermal barrier and immune system, with activation of multiple T cell subsets, and characterised by pruritis and cutaneous inflammation. Topical treatments include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, emollients and cutaneous antiseptics; severe disease requires treatment in the form of systemic immunosuppressants. Increased understanding of the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis has led to the development of targeted therapies, such as crisaborole, a topical phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, and dupilumab, a subcutaneously injected interleukin-4 receptor inhibitor. Emerging therapies include Janus kinase inhibitors, aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists, antimicrobial peptides, and biologics targeting interleukin-13, the interleukin-31 receptor, and the interleukin-5 receptor.
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