What is new in atopic dermatitis/eczema?

Introduction: Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin condition and one of the most common, potentially debilitating diseases with increasing incidence.Areas covered: The complex etiology of AE with multiple systemic and local immunologic and inflammatory responses and interactions between susceptibility genes and environmental factors leading to defects in skin barrier function and eczematous skin lesions is presented. Knowledge of pathogenesis is important for understanding the more innovative treatment approaches discussed.Expert opinion: Basic therapy consists of hydrating topical treatment and avoidance of specific and unspecific provocation factors. For acute eczematous skin lesions, anti-inflammatory treatment consists mainly of topical glucocorticoids and topical calcineurin inhibitors. Microbial colonization and superinfection may induce skin exacerbation, which can be treated by either topical or systemic antimicrobial treatment. Systemic anti-inflammatory therapy is limited ...