Advances in atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease characterised by itch and is responsible for significant reduction in quality of life. While AD primarily arises in those under the age of 2 years, it is frequently persistent into adulthood. Recognition of AD is important for the general physician, especially to distinguish causes of acute flares that may present in any medical setting, such as eczema herpeticum and associated allergic reactions. While, to date, treatments have largely focused on broad spectrum immunomodulation with corticosteroids or systemic therapies (such as ciclosporin and methotrexate), increased knowledge in the pathophysiology of the disease has recently led to the expansion of treatment options available for those suffering with AD, and the new drugs on the horizon promise a previously unimagined potential for effective and safe treatment.

Automated summary

Atopic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by itch, which can significantly impact quality of life and persist into adulthood. General physicians must recognize the disease to differentiate acute flares from other conditions, such as eczema herpeticum and allergic reactions. While current treatments focus on broad spectrum immunomodulation, advancements in understanding the disease's pathophysiology have expanded treatment options, with promising new drugs offering potential for more effective and safe therapies in the future.