Atopic dermatitis - the review

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by a disrupted epidermal barrier, immune dysregulation, and genetic predisposition. Affecting individuals across all age groups, AD presents with recurrent flare-ups and varying clinical patterns depending on age. The pathophysiology involves key elements such as loss-of-function mutations in the filaggrin (FLG) gene, overproduction of cytokines like IL-4 and IL-13, and skin colonization by Staphylococcus aureus. Management strategies include patient education, topical therapies (e.g., corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, crisaborole, and tapinarof), systemic treatments like dupilumab and methotrexate, and phototherapy for refractory cases. Preventive measures, including breastfeeding and probiotic supplementation, offer limited benefits, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches. Innovative therapies and further research into AD pathogenesis hold promise for more effective disease control and improved quality of life for patients.