Adult Atopic Dermatitis- No Longer Forgotten?

The talk will focus on the practical management of this disease with an understanding of the pathophysiology and emerging disease associations. New treatments can potentially transform the quality of life for these unfortunate patients. 

Not all children grow out of their atopic dermatitis. A significant number of patients continue to suffer through young adulthood and beyond. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis up to the age of 26 years is between 5-15%. 

The psychosocial and economic impact is significant. A recent study of Australian and New Zealand adolescents and adults with moderate to severe atopic eczema demonstrated significant sleep impact, difficulty concentrating, impaired ability to undertake physical activity, impaired mental health and reduction in work productivity. 

Whilst optimising topical treatment is important, it is often insufficient to manage severe disease. Current conventional treatments, including immunosuppressive agents, benefit some patients but are not suitable or effective for all. A new generation of treatments offers hope to these patients in the same way that biologic therapy has transformed the management of psoriasis. These treatments include interleukin 4/13 inhibitors and Janus kinase (JAK inhibitors).