Key points The use of probiotics to promote a healthy state has been widely studied. Oral probiotics have been shown to aid in the prevention of atopic dermatitis in select populations. Oral probiotics may also help in the treatment of…
Key points This chapter provides an overview of the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and the key mediators that are of therapeutic interest. As we acquire more knowledge into the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis, we will be able to use more…
Key points Moisturizers help with skin barrier repair and continue to be the mainstay of maintenance treatment and prevention of flares in atopic dermatitis (AD). Though greasier moisturizer delivery systems such as ointments and creams are most effective, patient compliance…
Key points Issues with wound healing in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) relate to innate inability to repair the barrier, defective angiogenesis, abnormal microbial colonization, and a prolonged inflammatory phase. Patients with AD are at a higher risk for hypersensitivity…
Key points Optimal bathing practices can improve atopic dermatitis (AD) symptoms and limit disease flares. Best practices include daily bathing for less than 10 minutes in lukewarm water, utilizing neutral to mildly acidic nonsoap cleansers, and the immediate application of…
Key points Multiple clinical guidelines, consensus statements, and expert management recommendations have been published for atopic dermatitis. Most prominent guidelines are from the American Academy of Dermatology and the College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Joint Task published in 2014…
Key points Less than 50% of patients affected with atopic dermatitis have a genetic mutation of the skin barrier protein, filaggrin. Thus additional contributing factors, barrier defects, and beyond could account for disease triggering of the other 50% of patients…
Key points There are three major types of epigenetic modifications: DNA methylation, microRNAs, and posttranslational histone modifications. DNA methylation and microRNAs alter the expression of atopic dermatitis-associated genes identified in multiple genomewide association studies. Epigenetic alterations also impact epidermal barrier…
Key points Both itch and pain are very frequent symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis, with a prevalence of more than 50%. Patients with atopic dermatitis show neuronal sensitization to both itch and pain. Itch neuronal sensitization is associated with…
Key points The atopic march is a phenomenon characterized by progressive development of atopic dermatitis, food allergy, allergic rhinitis, and later asthma. The mechanism by which atopic dermatitis advances toward gastrointestinal or airway disease remains to be fully elucidated, but…