Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema is a hereditary, non-contagious skin disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the skin. In individuals susceptible to AD, the skin reacts easily to irritants, food, and environmental allergens, becoming red, flaky and itchy. It is also more susceptible to bacterial infections. Up to 20% of children and 1-3% of adults in industrialized countries suffer from AD, and its prevalence has more than doubled over the past three decades.  In affected individuals, the condition can either increase or disappear entirely over time.

Little is understood about the causes of AD. However, there is a correlation with other atopic conditions such as allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis.  There is a higher rate of concordance in identical twins as compared to fraternal twins, suggesting that genetics plays a role.  However, environmental factors such as nutrition and hygiene are important as well.  There is no cure for AD, but rigorous management of  the condition through a combination of avoiding acute triggers and drug therapy, can provide relief.  Calcineurin inhibitors are the most recently approved drug class for this condition.  However, serious safety concerns by the US Food & Drug Administration have led to the application of a black box warning on many medications.  There remains a strong demand for an effective and safe drug product (www.aad.org).