Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. Genetic as well as environmental factors contribute to AD, which is also part of the systemic atopy syndrome. Knowledge about the pathophysiology is still incomplete; however, it is evident that dysregulated innate and adaptive immunity, skin barrier function, and neuroimmune system, including pruritus, all contribute to the initiation, aggravation, and/or perpetuation of AD affecting mainly children and adolescents, but still adults with a significant impairment in patients' and families’ quality of life. The signs and symptoms can vary among individuals and in different genetic populations, albeit clinical characteristics like pruritus and location are largely common. Exciting new research has led to the development of new topical and systemic therapies against inflammation, skin barrier dysfunction, neuroimmune dysbalance, and pruritus. More treatments are currently in development and will be discussed here as well.